Efter Badet

Efter Badet Stockholm: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Complete Tourist Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Efter Badet is a celebrated public sculpture and cultural landmark in Stockholm, Sweden, offering visitors a unique intersection of art, history, and community. Situated in the Västertorp district, this evocative limestone bench by renowned Swedish artist Pye Engström (created between 1971 and 1976) invites visitors to sit among seven influential 20th-century political and cultural figures. The sculpture encapsulates Sweden’s progressive values and Stockholm’s commitment to accessible public art, making it a must-see for art lovers, history enthusiasts, and those seeking an authentic local experience (Visit Stockholm; Trek Zone; View Stockholm).

This guide provides detailed information on the history and significance of Efter Badet, essential visiting details (including hours and tickets), accessibility resources, nearby attractions, and practical travel tips to ensure a rewarding visit.

Introduction
Historical Context of Efter Badet
Artistic Significance
Visitor Information
Nearby Attractions and Travel Tips
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Visuals and Media Suggestions
Conclusion and Call to Action
References

Historical Context of Efter Badet

Stockholm’s Public Art Tradition and the “1% Rule”

Stockholm is internationally recognized for integrating public art into its urban landscape, a commitment formalized by the “1% Rule” in 1963. This policy reserves 1% of public construction budgets for publicly accessible artwork, embedding art into daily life and fostering civic engagement (Visit Stockholm). Stockholm’s parks, squares, and subway stations are living galleries, reflecting this enduring cultural investment.

Västertorp: The Suburban Sculpture Park

The Västertorp district exemplifies post-war urban planning and social democracy in Sweden. Designed to enrich suburban environments, Västertorp hosts one of Stockholm’s largest concentrations of public sculpture, with over 20 works installed between the 1950s and 1970s. This initiative was rooted in the belief that art should be an everyday experience, accessible to all residents (Trek Zone).

Commissioning and Installation

Efter Badet was commissioned as part of the Västertorp sculpture initiative. Pye Engström’s work, completed over five years and installed in 1976 outside Västertorpshallen (a public bath and sports hall), exemplifies the city’s effort to bring art into communal, recreational spaces. The sculpture’s interactive design invites the public to sit among its figures, bridging art and daily life.

Artistic Significance

About the Artist: Pye Engström

Pye Engström (b. 1928) is a leading Swedish sculptor known for her socially conscious works, which often explore themes of solidarity, activism, and the relationship between individuals and society. Her public art frequently challenges viewers to reflect on collective values.

Sculpture Description and Materials

Efter Badet is a robust limestone bench, notable for its functional design—visitors are encouraged to sit on or beside the sculpted figures, making the artwork both a meeting place and a space for contemplation (Trek Zone).

The Seven Figures and Their Legacies

The bench features seven seated figures, each representing a significant political or cultural leader of the 20th century:

Elise Ottesen-Jensen – Pioneer for sexual rights and women’s health in Scandinavia.
Paulo Freire – Brazilian educator and philosopher, symbolizing education for social justice.
Sara Lidman – Swedish author and activist.
Mao Zedong – Key figure in China’s revolution and political history.
Angela Davis – American activist and scholar, representing global civil rights struggles.
Georg Borgström – Environmentalist and food scientist, focusing on global sustainability.
Pablo Neruda – Chilean poet and Nobel laureate, a voice for artistic and political freedom.

Engström’s selection of these figures creates a tableau of internationalism and progressive thought, reflecting the era’s optimism and belief in collective action (Trek Zone).

Symbolism and Interpretation

The title “Efter Badet” (“After the Bath”) references the adjacent public bath, evoking themes of renewal, equality, and shared humanity. Bathing is universal and strips away social hierarchies, making the setting a symbolic ground for dialogue and reflection. The sculpture’s limestone material signifies endurance and connection to the earth, while its interactive design encourages visitors to engage with both the artwork and the ideas it represents.

Visitor Information

Visiting Hours and Tickets

Efter Badet is an outdoor public artwork, accessible 24 hours a day, year-round, with no admission fee or ticket required. For optimal viewing and interaction, daytime visits are recommended. Special events or guided tours may occasionally be available; check cultural listings for updates (Visit Stockholm).

Accessibility

Wheelchair Accessibility: The site is fully accessible, with paved paths and ground-level seating.
Transport: The nearest metro station is Hägerstensåsen (Green Line); it is a short, step-free walk to Västertorpshallen.
Buses and Cycling: Multiple bus routes and dedicated cycle lanes serve the area.
Facilities: Nearby Västertorpshallen provides amenities such as restrooms and cafés.

For more on accessible travel in Stockholm, see (Visit Sweden: Accessible Travel).

Seasonal Considerations

Summer (June–August): Best weather, vibrant neighborhood life, and community events.
Winter: The sculpture is accessible, but dress warmly. Snow can enhance the artwork’s atmosphere.

How to Get There

By Metro: Green Line to Hägerstensåsen; 10-minute walk to Västertorpshallen.
By Bus: Hägersten-Liljeholmen borough buses stop nearby.
By Car: Limited parking is available; public transit is recommended for convenience and sustainability.

Nearby Attractions and Travel Tips

Västertorpshallen: Public bath and sports hall, central to the sculpture’s theme.
Västertorp Sculpture Park: Explore over 20 public artworks in the neighborhood.
Rålambshovsparken: Another prime location for public art and outdoor recreation.
Stockholm Historical Sites: Combine your visit with trips to Gamla Stan, City Hall, or the Vasa Museum for a broader cultural experience (View Stockholm).

Tips:

Bring a camera for unique photo opportunities.
Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the park and surrounding area.
Check local event calendars for community activities.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is there an entrance fee or ticket required to visit Efter Badet?
A: No, it is free and open to the public at all times.

Q: What are the best hours to visit?
A: Daytime, especially in spring and summer, offers the best lighting and atmosphere.

Q: Is the site wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, the paths and sculpture area are designed for accessibility.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Some local tours include Efter Badet; check with Stockholm’s visitor centers.

Q: Can I take photos?
A: Photography is encouraged.

Visuals and Media Suggestions

Include high-quality images of the sculpture, especially those showing visitors seated among the figures. Suggested alt text:

“Efter Badet limestone sculpture bench with seven seated figures in Västertorp, Stockholm.”
“Visitors interacting with Efter Badet outside Västertorpshallen.”

Official tourism sites offer media galleries and virtual tours (Visit Stockholm).

Conclusion and Call to Action

Efter Badet is a powerful symbol of Stockholm’s dedication to accessible art, social progress, and community spirit. Its interactive, inclusive design and rich historical context make it a must-visit for travelers seeking deeper cultural understanding. Explore the sculpture, reflect on its progressive themes, and discover the broader network of public art that defines Stockholm’s urban identity.

Plan your visit to Efter Badet today! For comprehensive travel resources, guided tours, and real-time event updates, download the Audiala app. Follow us on social media for the latest on Stockholm’s cultural scene and public art.