Curiosum originated from two previous initiatives: Umevatoriet and Sliperiet. Umevatoriet was a small science centre located at Umestan. Sliperiet was an innovation environment and incubator, located on Arts campus at Umeå University, in the premises where Curiosum is now located. The premises have been adapted and built to enable visitors of all ages to do, learn and experience science and technology in creative and interactive forms.
Because we are part of Umeå University, we have access to a never-ending source of exciting activities and experiences that are linked to current research and technological development in a number of areas.
The creation of Curiosum has been made possible through a collaboration between Umeå University and Umeå Municipality. Through the national project Wisdome and donations from the Knut and Alice Wallenberg Foundation, a new dome theater with 70 seats has been built as an extension to the house.
The history of the building
The magnificent brick building, incorporating Curiosum, was designed by the Norwegian engineer Alf Prydz. The facade with its decorative elements was designed by the architect Sigge Cronstedt, and the house was built in 1909 by the Scharinska company. Curiosum was originally used for mechanical pulp production, and was Umeå City's first major industry. After the business was closed down in the 1950s, the building was used for various workshop premises.
In 1986, it was rebuilt to incorporate the Academy of Fine Arts at Umeå University. In 2014, when the Art Campus expanded, the building was taken over by Sliperiet, an innovation environment for collaboration between universities, business and creators.
In 2018, a renovation and extension was initiated to adapt the premises to the needs of the science centre. The dome theater was built as an extension to the building. In 2020, the construction was completed and Curiosum was opened to the public and schools.
