ICONS – An Exhibition About the Right to Exist
March 2, 2024 12:00 PM
ICONS – An Exhibition About the Right to Exist


We all need role models to relate and look up to – be it a superhero, an artist, or a revolutionary. Yet, these universally iconic figures are rarely depicted bypeople with intellectual disabilities.

The photo exhibition Icons explores the right to exist and to be seen, regardless of who you are. It features portraits of iconic figures – real and fictional – modeled by 21 individuals with Down Syndrome. Here, they get to act out their dreams and desires: in society, in pop culture, and in art.

This exhibition is about more than just photography. Ultimately, it is a powerful reminder that while we are all unique, we are not as different as we might think.  

Icons was born out of a unique collaboration between the Fotografiska Museum in Stockholm, one of the world’s largest centers for contemporary photography, and the Glada Hudik Theater, a Swedish theater group for people with intellectual disabilities. Helena Andersson and Linda Sandberg (idea and design), Emma Svensson (photographer), Pär Johansson (artistic director, Glada Hudik Theater), Pauline Benthede (global exhibition manager, Fotografiska Museum), and Per Broman (founder, Fotografiska Museum) were responsible for the production.

This exhibition will be on display from March 2 until June 30, 2024.
Opening hours: Saturdays and Sundays between 12-5 PM.

#FREE admission but government issued photo ID is required to enter House of Sweden (children under 18 are exempted).

Welcome!