Sentralen

Sentralen is a cultural center and venue complex in Oslo, Norway, dedicated to contemporary art, design, performance, and public discourse. Located in the city center, it operates within a historic brick building that historically housed the central post office and later served as a hub for cultural activity. The center opened under the Sentralen umbrella in the mid-2010s after substantial renovation, with support from the city and cultural partners.

The complex comprises multiple spaces used for exhibitions, performances, talks, and workshops. It hosts a varied program that includes visual art exhibitions, theatre and music performances, design events, film screenings, and public lectures. In addition to presenting work, Sentralen supports artistic development through residencies, collaborations, and curatorial projects, fostering cooperation among artists, designers, and cultural practitioners. The venue also includes a cafe and spaces for gatherings, making it a regular meeting point for local and visiting audiences.

Governance and funding come from a foundation or non-profit entity that coordinates programming and operations, supplemented by municipal and national cultural funding, private sponsors, and income from ticket sales and space rentals. Sentralen is regarded as part of Oslo’s cultural infrastructure, serving as a platform for independent artists, cultural organizations, and creative enterprises, while inviting broad public participation through a diverse schedule of events and programs.