Blue Pearl

Anette Nordskog

2021 — Norway

About this series

The area around Larvik in the south-east of Norway is known for its rich occurrence of a special rock. Since it is found only there, the rock is officially named Larvikite after the nearby town. However, due to its characteristic, shimmering blue crystals which become visible after polishing, it is sometimes also called blue pearl or emerald pearl. Larvikite is mined in a number of quarries around the area of Larvik. Some of the quarries are large, some are small, some are discontinued, and some are still in use. Larvikite is a large export article for the area and is used as a decorative rock for interiors, memorials, and as façade cladding for commercial buildings in cities such as New York and Dubai, among others the UN building in NYC.
The monumental quarry structures may be artificial, but in an interesting way, they are different from the rest, and beautiful in their own right. The quarries reveal the otherwise hidden interior of the mountains, with all kinds of surprising details. The project explores the visual aspects of the Larvikite quarries, focusing on the alienation of landscape and the beauty of it at the same time; the shapes of the rocks, and the shapes of the landscape left after cutting both being of equal interest and fascination.

Photographer: Anette Nordskog
Nationality: Norwegian
Based in: Norway
Website: anettenordphotography
Instagram: @anettenordphotography

Anette Nordskog is a self-taught photographer based in Norway. Her focus is mainly on documentary photography and the contemporary landscape. She is interested in conceptions of landscape and perception of place; how we are influenced and shaped by the spaces we live in and how we simultaneously influence and shape the landscape around us. She has a personal approach and works on long-term projects.