I was very inspired of a video that was sent to me in the beginning of this project. The video was about a local cycle enthusiast that had relentlessly worked towards the goal of having a velodrome in Sola. For over 50 years this has been his mission, and finally it has been realised!

The man is Tor Helge Skretting, a former pro cyclist. During my planning period I was lucky enough to observe his gentle and empathic way to meet people. This led me to re-evaluate several sketches I had completed before coming up with a final one that would portray him, but also symbolise the leaders of the Arena and maybe emphasise the responsibility they have.

This meeting room is located in the office area. The first thing I noticed in this room when I was shown around in the building, was a poster of some rules they had hung up. It was called “The rules of kings” and explained how to treat each other in a good working environment. The crown in the painting comes from this poster.

The crown is held in his hands, and we don’t know if he is about to put it on his head, give it to someone else or just has received it. Maybe he is feeling the weight of such a responsibility, knowing that decisions made in this room might affect other people.

The painting is both a homage to Tor Helge Skretting and his will to make the velodrome a reality. A gesture to make him a physical part of the Arena, but also a symbol of being aware of a leaders responsibility and emphasising the “The rules of kings”.