Danish Originals

From her home in Copenhagen, Fulgebjerg-born Danish independent consultant FREDERIKKE MØLLER talks about her recent role as cultural advisor with the Danish Embassy in Washington, D.C. and her passion facilitating Danish art and culture in the US. Frederikke shares her thoughts on the changing US cultural scene under the Trump administration, and describes her current projects with the Seattle's National Nordic Museum and her dream to work on collaborations among Nordic cultures.----------For today's episode, Frederikke Møller chose Jakob Kudsk Steensen's Primal Tourism from 2016 from the collection of the National Gallery of Denmark.https://open.smk.dk/en/artwork/image/KMS8931----------Photographer: Per Sommer----------This conversation with Gregers Heering occurred on March 11, 2026.----------We invite you to subscribe to Danish Originals for weekly episodes. You can also find us at:website: https://danishoriginals.com/                                email: [email protected] 

From his home in Concord, Massachusetts, New England-born former US Ambassador to Denmark RUFUS GIFFORD recalls his start in politics, his ongoing connection to Denmark, and his work under Barack Obama and Joe Biden. He describes the current problematic chapter in transatlantic relationships, exemplified by the tensions with Denmark and Greenland, the MAGA movement in the US, and his passion to help elect a transformational US leader in 2028 in the post-Trump world order.----------For today's episode, Rufus Gifford chose C.W. Eckersberg's En sejlads til Charlottenlund, or Sailing from Copenhagen to Charlottenlund, from 1824 from the collection of the National Gallery of Denmark.https://open.smk.dk/en/artwork/image/KMS8684----------Photograph Source: Rufus Gifford----------This conversation with Nicolai Rottbøll occurred on March 18, 2026.----------We invite you to subscribe to Danish Originals for weekly episodes. You can also find us at:website: https://danishoriginals.com/email: [email protected]

From her home in Østerbro, Copenhagen- and Madison, Wisconsin-based Danish author PERNILLE IPSEN talks about her book and collective memoir My Seven Mothers: Making a Family in the Danish Women's Movement which is an English translation and adaptation of the 2020 Montana Prize Danish original. She describes her mothers' roles in the 1970s Red Stockings and Lesbian Movements, and traces the differences between writing in English as a historian and in Danish as a nonfiction author.----------For today's episode, Pernille Ipsen chose Dea Trier Mørch's Fødsel, or Birth, from 1978 from the collection of the National Gallery of Denmark.https://open.smk.dk/en/artwork/image/KKS2009-19----------Photographer: Bobbie Harte----------This conversation with Christian D. Bruun occurred on December 2, 2025.----------We invite you to subscribe to Danish Originals for weekly episodes. You can also find us at:website: https://danishoriginals.com/email: [email protected]

From her home in Mar Vista, Los Angeles, Ølstykke-born, Málaga, Spain-raised Danish photojournalist METTE LAMPCOV discusses her work in California documenting climate change and the work of undocumented agricultural workers. With expertise in water, forest, and fire ecology, she revisits her work on the Salton Sea and the Sequoia National Forest. Throughout, Mette shares her thoughts on the state of journalism and photojournalism, AI, and the effects of current US politics on her work.----------For today's episode, Mette Lampcov chose Anna Bjerger's Square from 2019 from the collection of the National Gallery of Denmark.https://open.smk.dk/en/artwork/image/KMS8948   ----------Photographer: Bruce Lampcov----------This conversation with Gregers Heering occurred on January 7, 2026.----------We invite you to subscribe to Danish Originals for weekly episodes. You can also find us at:website: https://danishoriginals.com/                               email: [email protected] 

From a recording studio in downtown Copenhagen, Siberian-born Danish journalist and author of I, Putin, SAMUEL RACHLIN recalls his parents' journey back to Denmark from exile, when he was ten. He talks about his natural urge to understand Russia, discovering the US in 1976, and his roles as the first news anchor for TV2 in 1988 and the first Washington Correspondent for TV2 in 1990. Returning from the US after 35 years, Samuel offers insights on the current absence of a rule-based world order.----------For today's episode, Samuel Rachlin chose Gerhard Henning's Stående nøgen pige, or Standing Nude Girl, from 1928–1929 from the collection of the National Gallery of Denmark.https://open.smk.dk/en/artwork/image/KMS5856 ----------Photographer: Balazs Veress----------This conversation with Asger Hussain occurred on January 27, 2026.----------We invite you to subscribe to Danish Originals for weekly episodes. You can also find us at:website: https://danishoriginals.com/                               email: [email protected]

From his home in Copenhagen, Gladsaxe-born Danish actor LARS MIKKELSEN talks about his role as Captain Anderson on Frankenstein (2025). He recalls his start as a street performer before Shakespeare sent him on his path to acting. Of his long career, Lars reflects on the TV series Sherlock, The Killing, and Borgen that brought him attention abroad and that led to the American series House of Cards. He talks about faith, Jante Law, his love for language, and seeking significance in his work.----------For today's episode, Lars Mikkelsen chose L.A. Ring's Når toget ventes. Jernbaneoverkørsel ved Roskilde Landevej, or Waiting for the Train. Level Crossing by Roskilde Highway, from 1914 from the collection of the National Gallery of Denmark.https://open.smk.dk/en/artwork/image/DEP535 ----------Photographer: Robin Skjoldborg----------This conversation with Tina Jøhnk Christensen occurred on January 13, 2026.----------We invite you to subscribe to Danish Originals for weekly episodes. You can also find us at:website: https://danishoriginals.com/                              email: [email protected]

In her West Hollywood family home, Germany-born, Southern California, Newport-Beach-based Danish-Brazilian entrepreneur NATASHA FISKER talks about her newest business venture, the science-backed skincare brand Checked Out that promises health and wellness that works overnight. Natasha further shares her thoughts on multiculturalism, her background in fashion technology, and the evolving trends of social media for marketing, from brand partnerships to influencer culture.----------For today's episode, Natasha Fisker chose Perseus og Andromeda, or Perseus and Andromeda, by an unknown artist from 1601–1652 from the collection of the National Gallery of Denmark.https://open.smk.dk/en/artwork/image/KKSgb1399 ----------Photographer: Leta Taylor----------This conversation with Christian D. Bruun occurred on February 1, 2026.----------We invite you to subscribe to Danish Originals for weekly episodes. You can also find us at:website: https://danishoriginals.com/                              email: [email protected]

In her home in Nørrebro, Germany-born, Kolding-raised, Danish-German film and TV editor OLIVIA NEERGAARD-HOLM talks about her process pre-, during, and post-production with her arthouse projects in various languages. She discusses creative ownership and revisits projects such as her 2015 one-take Berlin-set film Victoria, her 2025 US feature The Chronology of Water, and discusses the challenges with the 2024 biographical drama The Apprentice about Donald Trump's formative years. ----------For today's episode, Olivia Neergaard-Holm chose Martinus Rørbye's Udsigt fra kunstnerens vindue, or View from the Artist's Window, from 1823–1827 from the collection of the National Gallery of Denmark.https://open.smk.dk/en/artwork/image/KMS7452 ----------Photographer: Emily Turner----------This conversation with Asger Hussain occurred on November 12, 2025.----------We invite you to subscribe to Danish Originals for weekly episodes. You can also find us at:website: https://danishoriginals.com/                             email: [email protected]

Back in Denmark on business, Viborg-born, San Francisco-based Danish former soccer player and market manager for Joe & The Juice CHRISTIAN MATHIASEN shares his thoughts on working in the Danish people-centric food and beverage company, where juicers are hosts and customers are guests. Christian talks about arriving in 2023 as the youngest person ever to be sent to the US by the company, and his role in establishing the culture as part of the post-COVID rebirth and revival of SF.----------For today's episode, Christian Mathiasen chose Søren L. Lange's Viborg, or Viborg, from 1822 from the collection of the National Gallery of Denmark.https://open.smk.dk/en/artwork/image/KKSgb12512 ----------Photographer: Stephanie Hopkins----------This conversation with Christian D. Bruun occurred on November 7, 2025.----------We invite you to subscribe to Danish Originals for weekly episodes. You can also find us at:website: https://danishoriginals.com/                             email: [email protected]

In Los Angeles completing his upcoming film about Unabomber Ted Kaczynski, north of Viborg-born Danish film and television director JANUS METZ talks about being drawn to characters that look into darkness. From his documentary Armadillo (2010) about Danish soldiers in the war in Afghanistan to his big budget tv series Star Wars: Andor (2025) to the miniseries ZeroZeroZero (2020) about the global cocaine trade, Janus talks about the anthropological approach and perspective in all his work. ----------For today's episode, Janus Metz chose Per Kirkeby's Uden titel (Vinterbillede), or Untitled (Winter Picture), from 1995 from the collection of the National Gallery of Denmark.https://open.smk.dk/en/artwork/image/KMS7953 ----------Private photograph----------This conversation with Asger Hussain occurred on November 10, 2025.----------We invite you to subscribe to Danish Originals for weekly episodes. You can also find us at:website: https://danishoriginals.com/                            email: [email protected]

From Gehl Studio on Powell Street, Gjern-born, San Francisco-based Danish architect, urban strategist and designer SOFIE KVIST recalls moving to the US when Danish firm Gehl People opened its west coast office. She describes her people-centric and data-driven work focused on public spaces as more social science than design. And she shares conceptual design projects in North American cities that have, at their core, attention to foundational cultural, social, and environmental sustainability.----------For today's episode, Sofie Kvist chose Ejnar Nielsen's Og i hans øjne så jeg døden, or And in his Eyes I Saw Death, from 1897 from the collection of the National Gallery of Denmark.https://open.smk.dk/en/artwork/image/KMS1832 ----------Photograph Source: GEHL----------This conversation with Christian D. Bruun occurred on November 7, 2025.----------We invite you to subscribe to Danish Originals for weekly episodes. You can also find us at:website: https://danishoriginals.com/                            email: [email protected]

From Copenhagen for a short stopover during awards season, Herning-born, Copenhagen-based Danish documentary film producer HELLE FABER talks about her film Mr Nobody Against Putin, currently nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature. Helle discusses how she got involved in the secret film, how the subject and filmmakers had to trust each other, and how the team got the subject out of Russia for his safety that would then secure the film's chances to be shown. ----------For today's episode, Helle Faber chose Uden titel, or Untitled, from 1988 by Ragna Braase from the collection of the National Gallery of Denmark.https://open.smk.dk/en/artwork/image/kms8905 ----------Photographer: Martin Bubrandt----------This conversation with Asger Hussain occurred on February 20, 2026.----------We invite you to subscribe to Danish Originals for weekly episodes. You can also find us at:website: https://danishoriginals.com/                            email: [email protected]

From her home in Burbank, Aarhus-born, Peabody Award-winning Danish podcast host, director, and producer LEA THAU retraces her journey from New York to Los Angeles, first leading The Moth, the live platform for storytellers, to creating the podcast Strangers. Lea describes the gradual insertion of own self at the center of her storytelling, exemplified by the "Love Hurts" and "Lea in Trumpland" miniseries. And after a 7-year hiatus, she hints at upcoming shows of yet another kind of storytelling. ----------For today's episode, Lea Thau chose Erik Henningsen's Sat ud, or Evicted Tenants, from 1892 from the collection of the National Gallery of Denmark.https://open.smk.dk/en/artwork/image/KMS1454 ----------Photographer: Kevin Zacker----------This conversation with Christian D. Bruun occurred on December 10, 2025.----------We invite you to subscribe to Danish Originals for weekly episodes. You can also find us at:website: https://danishoriginals.com/                           email: [email protected]

From his home in Healdsburg in Northern California, Taulov-born Danish winemaker LEO STEEN HANSEN recalls his journey in 1999 from sommelier at famed Copenhagen restaurant Kong Hans to natural winemaking in Sonoma County. Leo shares insights on his approach to his food-friendly wines at Leo Steen Wines, especially his signature Chenin Blanc, and his relationships with vineyard partners along the California coast. And he talks about his newest venture in Denmark, Scout by Leo.----------For today's episode, Leo Steen Hansen chose P.S. Krøyer's Badende drenge en sommeraften ved Skagens strand, or Boys Bathing at Skagen. Summer Evening, from 1899 from the collection of the National Gallery of Denmark.https://open.smk.dk/en/artwork/image/KMS1658 ----------Photographer: Stephanie Hopkins----------This conversation with Christian D. Bruun occurred on November 4, 2025.----------We invite you to subscribe to Danish Originals for weekly episodes. You can also find us at:website: https://danishoriginals.com/                           email: [email protected]

From his studio in Vesterbro, Sønderborg-born Danish photographer SØREN SOLKÆR is home in Copenhagen after an exhibition opening in London. Søren talks about the evolving role of his camera over his three-decade long oeuvre of long-term global projects such as Surface, Photographs Posed, Passage, Souls, Black Sun, and One, focused on people, nature, and spirituality, and his relationship to patience. And he shares his plans for the Adventurer's Club where he is a lifetime member. ----------For today's episode, Søren Solkær chose Christian Lemmerz's Adam-Kadmon from 1997–1998 from the collection of the National Gallery of Denmark.https://open.smk.dk/en/artwork/image/KMS8399 ----------Photographer: Søren Solkær----------This conversation with Gregers Heering occurred on November 3, 2025.----------We invite you to subscribe to Danish Originals for weekly episodes. You can also find us at:website: https://danishoriginals.com/                          email: [email protected]

From his home in Portugal, suburban Copenhagen-born Danish serial entrepreneur HENRIK ZILLMER talks about AirHelp, one of many disruptive tech companies he founded that brought him to Silicon Valley and New York. He describes the concept of Justice-as-a-Service, his background in comedy and the military, and the cultural nuances in entrepreneurship in Europe, the US, and Asia. And he shares his newest ventures that take him away from technology into nature and the physical world.----------For today's episode, Henrik Zillmer chose Wilhelm Marstrand's Portræt af Otto Marstrands to døtre og deres vestindiske barnepige, Justina Antoine, i Frederiksberg Have, or Portrait of Otto Marstrand's two Daughters and their West-Indian Nanny, Justina Antoine, in the Frederiksberg Gardens near Copenhagen, from 1857 from the collection of the National Gallery of Denmark.https://open.smk.dk/en/artwork/image/KMS8833 ----------Photographer: York Hovest----------This conversation with Asger Hussain occurred on October 22, 2025.----------We invite you to subscribe to Danish Originals for weekly episodes. You can also find us at:website: https://danishoriginals.com/                          email: [email protected]

From The Royal Danish Theatre, Dallas-born, Detroit-raised, and Copenhagen-based American-Danish ballet dancer HOLLY DORGER recalls arriving in Denmark 18 years ago at age 18 to join The Royal Danish Ballet, where she subsequently was promoted from corps de ballet to soloist and principal dancer. Holly explains her at times bumpy and lonely road as an American creative in Denmark, her connection to her audiences via social media, and being knighted at age 26 by HM Queen Margrethe. ----------For today's episode, Holly Dorger chose Carl Rasmussen's Midnatsstemning ved den grønlandske kyst, or A Stretch of Coast in Greenland. Midnight, from 1872 from the collection of the National Gallery of Denmark.https://open.smk.dk/en/artwork/image/KMS993----------Photographer: Samantha Zauscher----------This conversation with Gregers Heering occurred on October 20, 2025.----------We invite you to subscribe to Danish Originals for weekly episodes. You can also find us at:website: https://danishoriginals.com/                         email: [email protected]

From his home in Washington DC, Ravnsnæs-born Danish counselor of science and innovation TORBEN ORLA NIELSEN explains his new role with the Danish Embassy tracking the political framework of the US research environment as it impacts Danish research. Following seven years in Boston's Innovation Centre Denmark, Torben, a diplomat, navigates the evolving US research priorities and funding in order to assist US collaborations with Danish universities and companies.----------For today's episode, Torben Orla Nielsen chose Rialto-broen i Venedig, or The Rialto Bridge in Venice, by an unknown artist from 1670–1679 from the collection of the National Gallery of Denmark.https://open.smk.dk/en/artwork/image/KKSgb44667----------Private photograph----------This conversation with Christian D. Bruun occurred on October 17, 2025.----------We invite you to subscribe to Danish Originals for weekly episodes. You can also find us at:website: https://danishoriginals.com/                          email: [email protected]

From her home in Valby, Copenhagen, Elsinore-born Danish denim and jeans designer CHRISTINE DETLEFSEN finds her inspiration from the vintage world while combining sustainable and responsible innovations in fiber, fabric, and washing. Trained at Levi's, Christine recalls the years working in New York and Los Angeles, and executive producing a documentary about the unique cultural history of jeans. And she walks through how denim design requires an artistic and engineering mindset equally.----------For today's episode, Christine Detlefsen chose Wolfgang Tillman's Planet, afterhour, Berlin. 1992 from 1996 from the collection of the National Gallery of Denmark.https://open.smk.dk/en/artwork/image/KKS1996-66/32 ----------Private photograph----------This conversation with Christian D. Bruun occurred on October 13, 2025.----------We invite you to subscribe to Danish Originals for weekly episodes. You can also find us at:website: https://danishoriginals.com/                         email: [email protected]

From her home in Klampenborg, Copenhagen, Central Zealand-born Danish curator, art advisor, and founder / director of ART 2030 LUISE FAURSCHOU talks about the non-profit's projects in New York City and at the UN Headquarters. With a strong belief that art changes people and people change the world, she describes a 40-year career in art that culminates in collaborations with artists, galleries, and museums to champion the art sector to help envision an interconnected and sustainable future.----------For today's episode, Luise Faurschou chose Tomas Saraceno's Biosfære, or Biosphere, from 2009 from the collection of the National Gallery of Denmark.https://open.smk.dk/en/artwork/image/KMS8613 ----------Photograph Source: Tine Harden. Courtesy of ART 2030----------This conversation with Christian D. Bruun occurred on October 6, 2025.----------We invite you to subscribe to Danish Originals for weekly episodes. You can also find us at:website: https://danishoriginals.com/                        email: [email protected]

From his home office in Nordhavn, Brønshoj-born Danish tech entrepreneur, author, podcaster, investor, and racing driver DAVID HEINEMEIER HANSSON talks about his recent move back home after the fires in Los Angeles. David recalls his start of 37 Signals, his company that developed Ruby on Rails and Basecamp, and he shares his pursuit of flow, his life philosophy in Stoicism, and his thoughts on entrepreneurship, business, media, and the cultural landscapes of the US vs. Denmark. ----------For today's episode, David Heinemeier Hansson chose El Greco's Mandsportræt, or Portrait of a Man, from 1570–1575 from the collection of the National Gallery of Denmark.https://open.smk.dk/en/artwork/image/KMSsp146 ----------Photograph Source: David Heinemeier Hansson----------This conversation with Tina Jøhnk Christensen occurred on September 12, 2025.----------We invite you to subscribe to Danish Originals for weekly episodes. You can also find us at:website: https://danishoriginals.com/                        email: [email protected]

On a visit to Los Angeles, Skagen-born, Silicon Valley-based Danish designer and creative consultant LOUISE "LULU" ESCHELMAN recalls arriving in LA on a one-way ticket. She shares the vision of her company Lumilla, founded on Danish minimalism with a laidback California sensibility, that has evolved from a luxury leather to a lifestyle brand. Louise talks about giving back, how she found on footing, and her new venture to work with new artists and brands, especially from Denmark. ----------For today's episode, Louise Eschelman chose P.S. Krøyer's Fiskere på Skagens strand, or Fishermen at Skagen Beach, from 1883 from the collection of the National Gallery of Denmark.https://open.smk.dk/en/artwork/image/KMS1233 ----------Photographer: Eji Eustaquio----------This conversation with Tina Jøhnk Christensen occurred on September 22, 2025.----------We invite you to subscribe to Danish Originals for weekly episodes. You can also find us at:website: https://danishoriginals.com/                       email: [email protected]

From his home in Winchester, Massachusetts, Odense-born Danish astrophysicist, former soccer player, and artist SØREN MEIBOM came to the US in 1999 for his PhD at the University of Wisconsin-Madison after a career in professional soccer, and recalls his work on NASA's Kepler mission at the Harvard & Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics. He talks about his role with the Global Curiosity Institute, and shares his vision for his third chapter fusing visual art with the language of science. ----------For today's episode, Søren Meibom chose Jens Søndergaard's Hav. Storm, or Stormy Sea, from 1954 from the collection of the National Gallery of Denmark.https://open.smk.dk/en/artwork/image/KMS4895 ----------Photographer: Priscilla Fitzgerald----------This conversation with Tina Jøhnk Christensen occurred on August 27, 2025.----------We invite you to subscribe to Danish Originals for weekly episodes. You can also find us at:website: https://danishoriginals.com/                        email: [email protected]

From her home in Healdsburg, California, Hørsholm-born Danish gallerist ANNE-KATHRINE SCHJERBECK talks about the beginnings as well as latest collaborations at Gallery Lulo that merges craft with art and design with a Danish minimalist sensibility. She recalls growing up in Kenya and Zambia where her parents were diplomats, how she felt affinity with the African-American community when she lived in New Orleans, and how climate change post-Katrina brought her out west.----------For today's episode, Anne-Kathrine Schjerbeck chose Vilhelm Hammershøi's Stue i Strandgade med solskin på gulvet, or Interior in Strandgade, Sunlight on the Floor, from 1901 from the collection of the National Gallery of Denmark.https://open.smk.dk/en/artwork/image/KMS3696----------Photographer: Amy Debonis----------This conversation with Tina Jøhnk Christensen occurred on August 11, 2025.----------We invite you to subscribe to Danish Originals for weekly episodes. You can also find us at:website: https://danishoriginals.com/                       email: [email protected]

From the research facilities of Novo Nordisk, Copenhagen-born, Lexington, Massachusetts-based Danish scientist and senior vice president JACOB STEN PETERSEN talks about his 35-year career working in developing drugs to support patients with serious chronic diseases, and his 25-year long work and personal investment in finding a cure for diabetes. Jacob further shares his thoughts on the cultures between Denmark and the US regarding the pharmaceutical industry and healthcare system.----------For today's episode, Jacob Petersen chose Per Kirkeby's Uden titel, Læsø, or Untitled, Læsø, from 2001 from the collection of the National Gallery of Denmark.https://open.smk.dk/en/artwork/image/KMS8278----------Photographer: Greg M. Cooper----------This conversation with Tina Jøhnk Christensen occurred on August 14, 2025.----------We invite you to subscribe to Danish Originals for weekly episodes. You can also find us at:website: https://danishoriginals.com/                      email: [email protected]

Fredensborg-born, West Hollywood, Los Angeles-based Danish actress, voiceover artist, and writer MARIE BROCK talks about a creative life in the entertainment industry that is characteristically self-motivating. Marie recalls her path to LA via New York and London, and shares her deep experience in voice work and her passion for developing dimensional characters. And she introduces her latest writing project, a Nordic Noir tv crime drama that speaks to her two worlds, Denmark and America. ----------For today's episode, Marie Brock chose Matisse: The Red Studio exhibition held at the National Gallery of Denmark.https://www.smk.dk/en/exhibition/henri-matisse-the-red-studio/----------Photographer: Zadran Wali----------This conversation with Tina Jøhnk Christensen occurred on August 13, 2025.----------We invite you to subscribe to Danish Originals for weekly episodes. You can also find us at:website: https://danishoriginals.com/                      email: [email protected]

From her new apartment in Miami, Florida, Sønderborg-born and recent New Yorker Danish scientist and gynecologist MARIE FOEGH shares her research findings on hormone replacement therapy for women experiencing perimenopause and menopause. With clinics in both New York and Copenhagen, Marie talks about her six-decade-long path in medicine, most of which based in the US, and the different attitudes on women's health over the years both in Denmark and the US.----------For today's episode, Marie Foegh chose Amedeo Modigliani's Alice from 1916–1919 from the collection of the National Gallery of Denmark.https://open.smk.dk/en/artwork/image/KMSr145----------Photographer: Danielle Richards----------This conversation with Tina Jøhnk Christensen occurred on August 21, 2025.----------We invite you to subscribe to Danish Originals for weekly episodes. You can also find us at:website: https://danishoriginals.com/                     email: [email protected]

Vesterbro-born and Beachwood Canyon, Los Angeles-based Danish tv and film colorist FREDERIK BOKKENHEUSER recalls his path from Denmark to LA as a drummer in 2007. He talks about the creative and technical aspects of his work at Picture Shop, the diversity of projects he encounters, the evolving post-production technological landscape, and the thrill in working alongside directors, directors of photography, producers. Lastly, as a Dodgers fan, he discusses his passion for baseball.----------For today's episode, Frederik Bokkenheuser chose C.A. Jensen's Dødningehoved og timeglas, or Skull and Hourglass, from 1714–1814 from the collection of the National Gallery of Denmark.https://open.smk.dk/en/artwork/image/KMS7660 ----------Photographer: Thomas Hjorth----------This conversation with Tina Jøhnk Christensen occurred on July 9, 2025.----------We invite you to subscribe to Danish Originals for weekly episodes. You can also find us at:website: https://danishoriginals.com/                     email: [email protected]

From the renovated Gensler offices in Downtown Los Angeles, Århus-born Danish architect MICHAEL MØLLER PEDERSEN recalls his plan to move to LA with his wife in 2005 for a ten-year trial period. 20 years later, as project architect and technical director, he discusses architecture as a focus on the human experience, the role of sustainability, what makes a good architect, his appetite for large, complex projects, and the topic of heritage as a Dane living in the US raising his young daughter. ----------For today's episode, Michael Møller Pedersen chose Vilhelm Hammershøi's Stue i Strandgade med solskin på gulvet, or Interior in Strandgade, Sunlight on the Floor, from 1901 from the collection of the National Gallery of Denmark.https://open.smk.dk/en/artwork/image/KMS3696----------Photographer: Ryan Gobuty----------This conversation with Tina Jøhnk Christensen occurred on July 11, 2025.----------We invite you to subscribe to Danish Originals for weekly episodes. You can also find us at:website: https://danishoriginals.com/                    email: [email protected]

From Bloomberg Originals in Midtown Manhattan, Horsens-born, Brooklyn-based Emmy-nominated Danish documentary director and producer SARAH HOLM JOHANSEN describes Season 4 of her series Trafficked with Mariana van Zeller that garnered 29 Emmy nominations and 4 wins. Sarah recalls the start of her career in investigative journalism in New York on 60 Minutes, and traveling the world as a freelancer. And she revisits Denmark through the lens of her New York life and work.----------For today's episode, Sarah Holm Johansen chose a work Attributed to Adam de Coster, Two Sculptors at Night in Rome. Double Portrait of Francois Duquesnoy and Georg Petel, or To billedhuggere ved nattetid. Francois Duquesnoy og Georg Petel, from 1620–1623 from the collection of the National Gallery of Denmark.https://open.smk.dk/en/artwork/image/KMSsp810 ----------Photographer: Lizzie Sullivan----------This conversation with Tina Jøhnk Christensen occurred on July 8, 2025.----------We invite you to subscribe to Danish Originals for weekly episodes. You can also find us at:website: https://danishoriginals.com/                    email: [email protected]

From his Nørlum office in Viborg, South Korea-born Danish animation producer and studio CEO CLAUS TOKSVIG KJÆR recalls how the trajectory of his company changed upon the Oscar nomination of his hand-drawn, animated feature film Song of the Sea (2014). Claus has traveled to Los Angeles for over 50 times, and talks about the US mindset necessary in his work. He describes his latest project Dante, the new creative direction for Nørlum, and his decision to prioritize what's valuable in life. ----------For today's episode, Claus Toksvig Kjær chose Søren Henrik Petersen's "Studies from Nature with Regard to Landscape Drawing by S.H. Petersen," no. 5, or "Studier efter Naturen med Hensyn til Landskabstegning af S.H. Petersen," nr. 5, from 1816 from the collection of the National Gallery of Denmark.https://open.smk.dk/en/artwork/image/Kks13868f ----------Photographer: Elena Ø. Alexa----------This conversation with Tina Jøhnk Christensen occurred on June 3, 2025.----------We invite you to subscribe to Danish Originals for weekly episodes. You can also find us at:website: https://danishoriginals.com/                   email: [email protected]

Gentofte-born and Santa Monica, Los Angeles-based Danish creative coach and dream tender LOUISE ROSAGER describes her multilayered approach working with writers, actors, and artists using their own dreams as a new language for their storytelling and creative expression. Louise also talks about how her love for Shakespeare brought her to the US over 20 years ago, and revisits the tv series about young Shakespeare entitled Will (2017), which she conceived and served as executive producer. ----------For today's episode, Louise Rosager chose Oluf Hartmann's Jakobs kamp med englen, or Jacob's Struggle with the Angel, from 1905 from the collection of the National Gallery of Denmark.https://open.smk.dk/en/artwork/image/KKS10756----------Photographer: Aliana Turkel----------This conversation with Tina Jøhnk Christensen occurred on June 11, 2025.----------We invite you to subscribe to Danish Originals for weekly episodes. You can also find us at:website: https://danishoriginals.com/                   email: [email protected]

From his home studio in Copenhagen, Copenhagen-born Danish architect and urban planner JAN GEHL recalls the start of his 65-year-long career focused on people and public life in cities, beginning with Copenhagen. Jan highlights his writings that changed mindsets and his transformation of international cities that became people-centered, and credits like-minded city planners and politicians. In particular, he talks about his 2007–9 work in New York City with the Bloomberg administration. ----------For today's episode, Jan Gehl chose Hans Scherfig's Street View, New York, or Gadebillede, New York, from 1929–1930 from the collection of the National Gallery of Denmark.https://open.smk.dk/en/artwork/image/KKS2016-2----------Photographer: Kåre Gade----------This conversation with Tina Jøhnk Christensen occurred on May 27, 2025.----------We invite you to subscribe to Danish Originals for weekly episodes. You can also find us at:website: https://danishoriginals.com/                  email: [email protected]

From his apartment in Bedford-Stuyvesant in Brooklyn, New York, Gentofte-born Danish-Spanish-Brazilian restaurateur SEBASTIAN PEREZ recalls growing up in Copenhagen until he was six, and moving to New York at 13. Having opened his fourth location in East Williamsburg, Sebastian reflects on the early bootstrapping days of Smør, created with his partner and fellow Dane, Sebastian Bangsgaard, and his vision of providing approachable Danish/Scandinavian food to New Yorkers.----------For today's episode, Sebastian Perez chose Wolfgang Tillmans's Still life, Lucca, 1993 from 1996 from the collection of the National Gallery of Art.https://open.smk.dk/en/artwork/image/KKS1996-66/33----------Photographer: Paul Quitoriano----------This conversation with Tina Jøhnk Christensen occurred on April 24, 2025.----------We invite you to subscribe to Danish Originals for weekly episodes. You can also find us at:website: https://danishoriginals.com/                  email: [email protected]

On the 20th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, from his home in the Garden District of New Orleans, Holbæk-born Danish tenor saxophonist and composer CHRISTIAN WINTHER recalls moving to "The Big Easy" in 1997 to play with and learn from some of his jazz idols. Staying true to the birthplace of American jazz and also continually innovating, Christian talks about performing on the stages of the iconic Preservation Hall and Snug Harbor, recording in New York, and traveling the world to play.----------For today's episode, Christian Winther chose P.S. Krøyer's Søstudie. Skagen, or Seascape. Skagen, from 1882 from the collection of the National Gallery of Denmark.https://open.smk.dk/en/artwork/image/KMS1834 ----------Photographer: Richard Thompson----------This conversation with Tina Jøhnk Christensen occurred on July 10, 2025.----------We invite you to subscribe to Danish Originals for weekly episodes. You can also find us at:website: https://danishoriginals.com/                  email: [email protected]

From her home studio in the West Village in Manhattan, New York-born American-Danish theater and voice actress VANESSA JOHANSSON reflects on growing up American with a Danish architect-father from Copenhagen. Vanessa talks about her work with the Scandinavian American Theater Company, with its mission to bring cutting edge work by contemporary Scandinavian playwrights to American audiences. And she talks about the creative and academic sides to voice acting and abstract painting.----------For today's episode, Vanessa Johansson chose Richard Mortensen's Propriano from 1960 from the collection of the National Gallery of Denmark.https://open.smk.dk/en/artwork/image/KMS6467----------Photographer: Jeff Mosier----------This conversation with Tina Jøhnk Christensen occurred on April 29, 2025.----------We invite you to subscribe to Danish Originals for weekly episodes. You can also find us at:website: https://danishoriginals.com/email: [email protected]

From his home in Newbury Park, Thousand Oaks, Hobro-born Danish professional rider and horse trainer and abstract painter KENNETH VINTHER reflects on moving to California via Germany in his 20s, and on his career competing with and educating show jumping horses. He highlights his best horse, a Holsteiner named Colicchio, once the best in class on the US west coast, and the difference of riding between Denmark and the US — the former as an everyday sport, the latter as an elite one. ----------For today's episode, Kenneth Vinther chose Asger Jorn's Skrevet i sand: Alpona, or Written in Sand: Alpona, from 1971 from the collection of the National Gallery of Art.https://open.smk.dk/en/artwork/image/KMS9104 ----------Photographer: Zac Taylor----------This conversation with Tina Jøhnk Christensen occurred on April 11, 2025.----------We invite you to subscribe to Danish Originals for weekly episodes. You can also find us at:website: https://danishoriginals.com/                  email: [email protected]

From his home in Newbury Park, Thousand Oaks, Hobro-born Danish professional rider and horse trainer and abstract painter KENNETH VINTHER reflects on moving to California via Germany in his 20s, and on his career competing with and educating show jumping horses. He highlights his best horse, a Holsteiner named Colicchio, once the best in class on the US west coast, and the difference of riding between Denmark and the US — the former as an everyday sport, the latter as an elite one. ----------For today's episode, Kenneth Vinther chose Asger Jorn's Skrevet i sand: Alpona, or Written in Sand: Alpona, from 1971 from the collection of the National Gallery of Art.https://open.smk.dk/en/artwork/image/KMS9104 ----------Photographer: Zac Taylor----------This conversation with Tina Jøhnk Christensen occurred on April 11, 2025.----------We invite you to subscribe to Danish Originals for weekly episodes. You can also find us at:website: https://danishoriginals.com/                  email: [email protected]

​From her home in London, Funen-born, Danish screenwriter LINE LANGEBEK talks about her widely celebrated Oscar-nominated film The Girl with the Needle (2025), a historical psychological horror film based on the true story of Danish serial killer Dagmar Overbye. Line talks about Raising Films, a UK-based organization she helped create that advocates for parents and carers in the screen sector, and her commitment to telling more universal stories in these turbulent and interesting times.----------For today's episode, Line Langebek chose Harald Giersing's To damer, or Two Ladies, from 1922 from the collection of the National Gallery of Art.https://open.smk.dk/en/artwork/image/KMS3653----------Photographer: Tara Violet Niami----------This conversation with Tina Jøhnk Christensen occurred on March 13, 2025.----------We invite you to subscribe to Danish Originals for weekly episodes. You can also find us at:website: https://danishoriginals.com/                 email: [email protected]

From his home in Thousand Oaks, California, Nivå-born Danish craft brewer JEPPE JARNIT-BJERGSØ recalls his start as a schoolteacher to kids with special needs and as a beer expert, brewer, and entrepreneur. He talks about his 2012 move to New York with his wife and young children that resulted in years of explosive growth, of his company Evil Twin Brewing, and a Michelin Starred restaurant. And he shares his latest adventure, Jarnit Family Wines, in Los Olivos north of Los Angeles.----------For today's episode, Jeppe Jarnit-Bjergsø chose Asger Jorn's Grædeøjne, or Tearful Eyes, from 1940 from the collection of the National Gallery of Art.https://open.smk.dk/en/artwork/image/DEP595----------Photographer: Tommy Frost----------This conversation with Tina Jøhnk Christensen occurred on April 11, 2025.----------We invite you to subscribe to Danish Originals for weekly episodes. You can also find us at:website: https://danishoriginals.com/                 email: [email protected]

On a visit to Los Angeles to meet with Twentieth Gallery about her new creations, Bonderup-born, London-trained, New York-based Danish designer CAMILLE STÆRK talks about her work, anchored against a strong foundation of her Danish heritage combined with her fascination with Old Hollywood and film noir, and expressed in what she describes as the whole universe: of fashion, furniture, lighting, rugs, accessories. And she talks about her creative partnership, Stærk & Christensen.----------For today's episode, Camilla Stærk chose Anne Marie Carl Nielsen's Hvilende føl, or Reclining Foal, from 1937 from the collection of the National Gallery of Art.https://open.smk.dk/en/artwork/image/KMShm21----------Photographer: Karen Collins----------This conversation with Tina Jøhnk Christensen occurred on March 24, 2025.----------We invite you to subscribe to Danish Originals for weekly episodes. You can also find us at:website: https://danishoriginals.com/                 email: [email protected]

From his apartment in Greenwich Village, New York, Odense-born Danish creative marketer KRISTIAN THOMASSEN recalls leaving home immediately after high school, and experiencing a deep feeling of belonging in New York City. Kristian pays homage to his mentor in his new city, a fellow Dane, or two, and describes his fast-paced work developing campaigns for brands to reach a young demographic with a Gen Z mindset. Lastly, Kristian shares why he is a fan of Pippi Longstocking.----------For today's episode, Kristian Thomassen chose Michelangelo Buonarroti's Siddende dreng, or Crouching Boy, from 1915 from the collection of the National Gallery of Denmark.https://open.smk.dk/en/artwork/image/KAS2382 ----------Private Photograph----------This conversation with Tina Jøhnk Christensen occurred on May 1, 2025.----------We invite you to subscribe to Danish Originals for weekly episodes. You can also find us at:website: https://danishoriginals.com/                 email: [email protected]

From his Michelin-Starred restaurant Elske he co-owns with his wife Anna Posey in Chicago's West Loop neighborhood, California-born Danish-American chef and restaurateur DAVID POSEY talks about his path in American fine dining that's always incorporated a Danish or Scandinavian profile. He reflects on his and his restaurant's recent roles on the popular tv series The Bear, the joy of experiencing the world through food, and the demands of running an award-winning restaurant.----------For today's episode, David Posey chose Georges Braque's Træerne, or Trees at l'Estaque, from 1908 from the collection of the National Gallery of Denmark.https://open.smk.dk/en/artwork/image/KMSr7 ----------Photographer: Huge Galdones----------This conversation with Tina Jøhnk Christensen occurred on March 27, 2025.----------We invite you to subscribe to Danish Originals for weekly episodes. You can also find us at:website: https://danishoriginals.com/                  email: [email protected]

​From her home in Bel-Air, London-born British-Danish interior designer and stylist KRISTINA HASLUND talks about her namesake Studio Haslund that blends Danish modernist style with Los Angeles' indoor-outdoor living. She retraces her roots with her Danish mother, her first career in the music industry, and how mid-century design and architecture are top reasons she calls LA home. And she explains why she has fallen in love with Palm Springs, the desert oasis just two hours east of LA.----------For today's episode, Kristina Haslund chose Harald Giersing's Landevej ved Fåborg, or Road near Fåborg on Funen, from 1920 from the collection of the National Gallery of Denmark.https://open.smk.dk/en/artwork/image/KMS3871 ----------Photographer: Adam Sheridan-Taylor----------This conversation with Tina Jøhnk Christensen occurred on April 30, 2025.----------We invite you to subscribe to Danish Originals for weekly episodes. You can also find us at:website: https://danishoriginals.com/                  email: [email protected]

From Dumbo, Brooklyn, Frederiksberg-born, Vejle-raised, Copenhagen- and New York-based Danish pianist and composer NIKOLAJ HESS gets ready for his upcoming concert at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. Nikolaj talks about how he translates visual art to music in his project Transformative Reflections, film scoring, and his many jazz adventures, highlighting New York as a jazz capital. And he talks about improvisation, and making music with his brothers Mikkel and Emil. ----------For today's episode, Nikolaj Hess chose Matisse: The Red Studio exhibition held at the National Gallery of Denmark and the Museum of Modern Art in New York.https://www.smk.dk/en/exhibition/henri-matisse-the-red-studio/----------Photographer: Jill Greenberg----------This conversation with Tina Jøhnk Christensen occurred on April 8, 2025.----------We invite you to subscribe to Danish Originals for weekly episodes. You can also find us at:website: https://danishoriginals.com/                  email: [email protected]

​From her home in Nørrebro in Copenhagen, Haderslev-born Danish-English multidisciplinary artist ​BIRGITTE MOOS CHALCRAFT talks about her time in Los Angeles at the start of the booming art scene in the Arts District of Downtown LA. There she was inspired by her fellow artists and the land and street art movements. Birgitte talks about her focus on the intersection of psychology and art, her interest in quantum physics, and her new project creating an age 50+ female artist group.----------For today's episode, Birgitte Moos Chalcraft chose Lene Adler Petersen and Bjørn Nørgaard's Blad fra serien "Den kvindelige Kristus". Børsaktionen 29.5.1969, or Leaf from the series "The Female Christ". The Stock Market Action 29.5.1969, from 1969 from the collection of the National Gallery of Denmark.https://open.smk.dk/en/artwork/image/KKS1979-152----------Photographer: Helle Moos----------This conversation with Tina Jøhnk Christensen occurred on March 8, 2025.----------We invite you to subscribe to Danish Originals for weekly episodes. You can also find us at:website: https://danishoriginals.com/                 email: [email protected]

In his home in Winchester outside of Boston, Aalborg-born Danish entrepreneur NICOLAI ROTTBØLL is excited about life in the US where he continues his work with international organizations on sustainability and green transition. He talks about the importance of positive thinking, his largest project Our World 2050 that calls on one million children to share their vision of our collective future, and the book he's authoring on the power of connecting and collaborating over a cup of coffee. ----------For today's episode, Nicolai Rottbøll chose P.S. Krøyer's Badende drenge en sommeraften ved Skagens strand, or Boys Bathing at Skagen. Summer Evening, from 1899 from the collection of the National Gallery of Denmark.https://open.smk.dk/en/artwork/image/KMS1658----------Photographer: Aurora De Luca----------This conversation with Tina Jøhnk Christensen occurred on March 6, 2025.----------We invite you to subscribe to Danish Originals for weekly episodes. You can also find us at:website: https://danishoriginals.com/                 email: [email protected]

In her home in Studio City, Los Angeles, Christianshavn-born Danish author, collector, and gallerist MUS WHITE recalls moments from the 60 years she has lived in California, having left Denmark upon her high school graduation. She talks about starting out as a juvenile probation officer, then becoming a published author and translator, a historical photography dealer and exhibition maker along with her husband, and a recognized collector of photographically illustrated children's books.----------For today's episode, Mus White chose Vilhelm Hammershøi's Stue i Strandgade med solskin på gulvet, or Interior in Strandgade, Sunlight on the Floor, from 1901 from the collection of the National Gallery of Art.https://open.smk.dk/en/artwork/image/KMS3696----------Photographer: Stephen White----------This conversation with Tina Jøhnk Christensen occurred on March 5, 2025.----------We invite you to subscribe to Danish Originals for weekly episodes. You can also find us at:website: https://danishoriginals.com/                 email: [email protected]

In Los Angeles for the Annie Awards with his nominated short film, Hans Christian Andersen's The Swineherd (2023), Viborg-based Danish producer SØREN FLENG describes how he came to the industry through Denmark's world-renowned animation school, The Animated Workshop, and the unique community of animation professionals. He gives a sneak peak on his current project with a US partner, and shares his thoughts on the power of creating content that impacts children.----------For today's episode, Søren Fleng chose Henri Matisse's Interior with a Violin, or Interiør med violin, from 1917–1918 from the collection of the National Gallery of Denmark.https://open.smk.dk/en/artwork/image/KKS1971-93----------Photographer: Kim Wendt----------This conversation with Tina Jøhnk Christensen occurred on February 6, 2025.----------We invite you to subscribe to Danish Originals for weekly episodes. You can also find us at:website: https://danishoriginals.com/                 email: [email protected]

From her home in Greenpoint, Brooklyn, Danish creative director SIMONE FABRICIUS reflects on having loved New York City since seeing it on the movie screen in the '80s, and moving there 15 years ago after a decade in Paris from Denmark. Simone talks about her work, which she calls "play," in brand, packaging, visual design, and illustration, and how she's particularly excited about the explosive developments and opportunities in the hospitality industry. ----------For today's episode, Simone Fabricius chose Jacob Biltius's Dead Wildfowl, or Dødt fuglevildt, from 1674 from the collection of the National Gallery of Denmark.https://open.smk.dk/en/artwork/image/KMSsp610----------Private photograph----------This conversation with Tina Jøhnk Christensen occurred on February 5, 2025.----------We invite you to subscribe to Danish Originals for weekly episodes. You can also find us at:website: https://danishoriginals.com/                 email: [email protected]