Traveller’s Cathedral Henrik Godsk

Henrik Godsk (b. 1975 in Hjørring, DK) presents his first solo exhibition, Traveller’s Cathedral, at Ruttkowski;68 in New York.

Henrik Godsk is part of the 7th generation in the travelling Herzberg family, one of Scandinavia‘s largest carnival and circus families. His artistic practice is informed by his upbringing in his family’s travelling fair, and his cultural identity as a „traveller“ is reflected in his works, evident in the geometric shapes, vibrant colors, and fantastical motifs. His early artistic education was acquired through the renovation of fairground facades and attractions, reflecting a familial tradition that has been passed down through generations. His travelling heritage lives on, now in the world of painting. As Godsk puts it: “I am still a traveller.“

The exhibition Traveller’s Cathedral draws inspiration from an image from Henrik‘s childhood of the attraction „Lykkehjulet“ (the wheel of fortune): This iconic attraction, characterized by its large, multicolored numbered wheel, painted shelves with prizes, colorful striped tent canvases, decorated awnings, colorful lighting, and the intricately painted facade, serves as a focal point for the exhibition.

The exhibition presents the empty carnival, devoid of its usual public. The interior of the carnival is characterized by a sense of quiet and solitude. The setting is populated by the trapeze artist and the stoic matriarchs, who are references to Godsk‘s grandmother Eleonora and aunt Vilhelmine. The traveller in the striped shirt is a reference to Godsk‘s father, who owned seven suits when he was young. Through a window in a wagon, a fragment of a ferris wheel is visible. In another window, a view is afforded of part of a classic swing carousel. Both of these elements possess a sculptural quality.

At the core of the exhibition stands the wheel of fortune, presented as a geometric form that fills the space and functions as a central altar piece. A contrast is created by suspended shelves with paintings that float as fragmented elements on the walls. The exhibition depicts the empty, serene carnival square and the private travellers in their home – their cathedral.

Opening reception        05/09/2025      6-8pm

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