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Ruth Smith Art Museum: A Tribute to Faroese Art

Discover the art of Ruth Smith in Vágur, Faroe Islands, showcasing vibrant landscapes and portraits reflecting Faroese life and culture.

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The Ruth Smith Art Museum in Vágur, Suðuroy, is dedicated to the life and work of one of the Faroe Islands' most celebrated artists. Housed in the old schoolhouse where Smith herself studied, the museum offers an intimate glimpse into her art, characterized by its sensitive use of color and unique portrayal of the Faroese landscape.

A brief summary to Ruth Smith Art Museum

  • Wednesday 3 pm-5 pm
  • Friday 3 pm-5 pm
  • Saturday 3 pm-5 pm

Local tips

  • The museum has limited opening hours, typically Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from 3 PM to 5 PM during the summer season, so check the schedule in advance.
  • Consider contacting Visit Suðuroy to arrange a visit outside of the regular opening hours.
  • Combine your visit with a walk around Vágur to experience the local culture and see the landscapes that inspired Ruth Smith.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Ruth Smith Art Museum is located at Vágsvegur 101 in Vágur. From the center of Vágur, it's a short walk to the museum. Head west towards the western part of town known as Gørðini. The museum is in the yellow and brown building, the old school ('Gamli Skúli'), close to the shops.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving by bus in Vágur, walk towards Vágsvegur road. The museum is a short walk from the bus stop, located at 101 Vágsvegur. Bus routes connect Vágur with other towns on Suðuroy. A single journey ticket on the bus costs approximately 3-5 USD.

  • Car

    If driving, navigate to Vágur on Suðuroy Island and then to Vágsvegur road. The Ruth Smith Art Museum is located at 101 Vágsvegur, Vágur 900. Parking is available nearby. Public parking in the Faroe Islands is generally free, but be aware of potential time limits indicated by blue signs.

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Discover more about Ruth Smith Art Museum

The Ruth Smith Art Museum, nestled in the heart of Vágur, is a cultural treasure celebrating the legacy of Ruth Smith, a prominent Faroese artist. Born in Vágur in 1913, Smith's work is known for its captivating depiction of the Faroese light and landscapes, often rendered with Impressionistic influences and a touch of realism. The museum is located in the 'Gamli Skúli' (the old school), a distinctive yellow and brown building where Ruth Smith attended school as a child. The collection features a range of Smith's paintings and drawings, including her self-portrait from 1941, which also appears on the cover of a biography about the artist. Her works often showcase the natural beauty of the Faroe Islands and its people, providing visitors with a unique perspective on Faroese life. Two of her self-portraits, painted in 1955 and 1956, are considered among the most important paintings in the Faroe Islands and are housed in the Faroe Islands Art Museum. Ruth Smith's life was tragically cut short in 1958 when she drowned while swimming in the Vágsfjørður fjord at the age of 45. Despite her untimely death, her artistic contributions continue to inspire and captivate art enthusiasts worldwide. Visiting the museum offers a chance to connect with Faroese culture and appreciate Smith's unique artistic vision.

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