Photos by Eddie Westergren

  • Lindholmen

    Lindholmen, Gothenburg, Sweden
    Lindholmen, Gothenburg, Sweden

    Lindholmen, located in Gothenburg, Sweden

    is a dynamic and rapidly evolving district known for its significant contributions to technology, innovation, and education. Situated along the Göta River, Lindholmen has transformed from a historical shipbuilding area into a cutting-edge hub for research, development, and collaboration.

    At the heart of Lindholmen is Lindholmen Science Park, an internationally recognized center for innovation. This collaborative environment brings together academia, industry, and public sector entities to drive advancements in various fields, including information and communication technology (ICT), transport, media, and visualizations. The science park houses numerous tech companies, startups, and research institutions, fostering a vibrant ecosystem where ideas and innovations flourish.

    Lindholmen’s educational landscape is anchored by the presence of Chalmers University of Technology and the University of Gothenburg, both of which have campuses in the area. These institutions contribute significantly to the district’s intellectual capital, providing a steady stream of skilled graduates and facilitating groundbreaking research projects. The collaboration between academia and industry in Lindholmen leads to practical applications of research, driving forward technological advancements and creating new business opportunities.

    The district

    is also a hub for the automotive and transport industries, with major players like Volvo having a strong presence. Volvo’s innovation center at Lindholmen focuses on developing future mobility solutions, including electric and autonomous vehicles. This emphasis on sustainable transportation aligns with Gothenburg’s broader goals of becoming a leader in green technology and smart city solutions.

    Lindholmen’s waterfront location adds to its appeal, offering stunning views and a pleasant environment for work and leisure. The area is well-connected by public transportation, including ferries, buses, and trams, making it easily accessible from other parts of Gothenburg. The modern architecture and well-planned urban spaces enhance the district’s attractiveness, making it a desirable location for businesses and residents alike.

    In addition to its professional and academic environment, Lindholmen hosts various events, conferences, and exhibitions that attract international attention. These gatherings facilitate knowledge exchange, networking, and collaboration, further cementing Lindholmen’s reputation as a global innovation hub.

    In summary

    Lindholmen in Gothenburg is a thriving district that seamlessly integrates technology, education, and industry. Its strategic location, combined with a robust ecosystem of collaboration and innovation, makes it a key driver of Gothenburg’s growth and a model for sustainable urban development.

  • Beach in Roquetas de mar

    Beach in Roquetas de mar
    Beach in Roquetas de mar

    The beach in Roquetas de Mar,

    located on the Costa de Almería in Spain, is a prime destination for both locals and tourists seeking sun, sea, and sand. This extensive stretch of golden sand, known as Playa Serena, is renowned for its cleanliness and well-maintained facilities, making it an ideal spot for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

    One of the key attractions of Roquetas de Mar beach is its crystal-clear, tranquil waters. These inviting waters are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and a variety of water sports, offering a safe environment for both beginners and experienced enthusiasts. The beach is well-equipped with amenities, including sun loungers, umbrellas, showers, and changing facilities, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all visitors.

    The picturesque promenade

    that runs along the beach is another highlight. Lined with palm trees, this bustling pathway is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a bike ride, offering stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. The promenade is dotted with numerous cafes, restaurants, and bars, providing ample opportunities to enjoy delicious local cuisine, refreshing drinks, and delightful tapas. These establishments often feature outdoor seating, allowing patrons to soak in the beautiful coastal scenery while savoring their meals.

    Roquetas de Mar beach also caters to those seeking a more active beach experience. Beach volleyball courts, playgrounds, and exercise areas are available, providing entertainment and fitness options for visitors of all ages. The beach’s wide expanse ensures that there is plenty of space for everyone, even during peak tourist season.

    The surrounding area

    is rich in natural beauty and cultural attractions. Nearby, the Punta Entinas-Sabinar Natural Park offers a chance to explore diverse ecosystems, including salt marshes, sand dunes, and lagoons, home to a variety of bird species and wildlife. For those interested in history, the Castillo de Santa Ana, a restored 17th-century fortress, provides insight into the region’s past and offers panoramic views of the coastline.

    In summary, the beach in Roquetas de Mar is a versatile destination that seamlessly blends relaxation, recreation, and natural beauty. Whether you’re looking to unwind on the sandy shores, engage in water sports, or explore the local culture, this beach offers something for everyone, making it a must-visit spot on the Costa de Almería.

  • Virgin del mar

    Virgen del Mar
    Virgen del Mar

    Virgen del Mar, 

    situated in the stunning Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park in Almería, Spain, is a small yet significant chapel that holds great cultural and spiritual importance. This quaint sanctuary is dedicated to the Virgin of the Sea, an emblematic figure deeply revered by local fishermen and residents of the region. The chapel’s location is as breathtaking as its purpose, perched on the rugged cliffs overlooking the vast expanse of the Mediterranean Sea.

    Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park, where the Virgen del Mar is found, is renowned for its dramatic landscapes, characterized by volcanic rock formations, secluded coves, and pristine beaches with crystal-clear waters. This park is one of the most arid regions in Europe, creating a unique desert-like environment that contrasts beautifully with the vibrant blues of the sea. The juxtaposition of arid land and azure waters forms a picturesque backdrop for the chapel, making it a serene retreat for visitors.

    The Virgen del Mar chapel-

    is not only a place of worship but also a cultural landmark. Every year, locals celebrate the Virgen del Mar with a procession that draws participants from the surrounding areas. This event, marked by its vibrant displays of devotion and community spirit, underscores the deep-rooted traditions and the bond between the people and their maritime heritage. The procession typically involves carrying a statue of the Virgin from the chapel to the sea, symbolizing the blessing of the waters and the safeguarding of those who venture into them.

    Visiting Virgen del Mar offers more than just spiritual reflection; it provides an opportunity to explore the rich natural beauty of Cabo de Gata. The area is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities such as hiking, snorkeling, and bird-watching. The diverse ecosystems, including salt flats and coral reefs, support a variety of wildlife, enhancing the region’s appeal to nature lovers.

    In essence, the Virgen del Mar in Cabo de Gata is a multifaceted destination. It harmoniously blends cultural heritage with natural splendor, offering a tranquil escape for those seeking both spiritual and scenic experiences. This chapel and its surroundings stand as a testament to the enduring connection between the people of Almería and their captivating coastal landscape.

  • Goat and sheep herder

    goat and sheep herder

     

    Goat and sheep herder

    In the golden light of early morning, a goat and sheep herder walks steadily through the narrow paths of Fénix. A small village nestled in the rugged hills of Almería, Spain. His flock—about twenty goats amd sheeps—moved in front of  him in a gentle, woolly wave, the soft clinking of their bells echoing through the silence of the countryside. The sun had just begun to rise over the arid landscape, casting long shadows and painting the stony buildings of the village in warm ochre tones.

    The herder had followed this path for decades. He knew each curve of the trail, each olive tree bent from years of desert wind, and each villager who would smile or wave as he passed. Life in Fénix moved slowly, unchanged for generations, and the herder liked it that way. There was comfort in the rhythm of his days—the morning walk with the goats and the sheeps, the quiet hours under the sparse shade of a fig tree, and the soft hush of twilight when he returned home.

     

    The animals were calm,

     used to the route, occasionally stopping to nibble at dry patches of grass that clung stubbornly to the earth. He carried a long wooden staff, more for tradition than need, though it helped him together with his dog to gently steer a wandering lamb now and then. The air was dry and tinged with the scent of rosemary and dust, familiar and grounding.

    Fénix itself is a small village. White stone houses with red-tiled roofs lined the central lane, and a centuries-old church stood at its heart. As I passed carrying my camera, an old woman leaned from her balcony, waving a hand and calling a greeting. A child pointed from behind his mother’s skirt, fascinated by the wooly mass ambling past.

    For him, herding was not just a livelihood—it was a legacy. His father had walked this same path, as had his grandfather, and even though times had changed—phones had arrived, tourists sometimes wandered by—his role remained unchanged. He was part of the land, of Fénix’s ancient pulse.

     

    By the time

    he reached the edge of the village where I was standing ready with my camera. The sun was higher, bathing the hills in fierce light. He paused, gazing at the horizon, where the blue of the sky met the sun-baked earth. With a soft whistle, he turned, leading his flock and I tokk the shoot before he walked into the wild scrubland beyond, where the real day’s work began.

  • Walk on beach

    Walk on beach
    Walk on beach

    A young girl walking along the shoreline, where the soft golden sand met the cool, rhythmic waves of the ocean.

    The sky above was a blend of soft grey and blue just before the sun began to set to cast long shadows behind her. She walked slowly, barefoot, enjoying the sensation of the wet sand squishing between her toes. Each step left small imprints that were quickly washed away by the incoming tide, as if the sea itself was gently erasing her path.

    The wind carried the fresh scent of the ocean, mixed with the faint tang of seaweed and salt. She watched the water as it sparkled in the light, tiny ripples forming and disappearing as far as the eye could see. Small shells and pebbles dotted the shore, some smooth and polished by the constant ebb and flow of the waves.

    As she strolled, the cool water occasionally reached up to brush her ankles, sending a gentle chill up her legs. She looked down, watching the foam swirl around her feet, retreating just as quickly as it had come. It was as if the ocean itself was playing a quiet, timeless game, never fully touching, yet never fully retreating.

    With each step, she felt a deep sense of peace. The vastness of the ocean, stretching out endlessly before her, seemed to calm her thoughts. In that moment, she felt connected to something much larger than herself, something ancient and eternal. The rhythmic sound of the waves crashing against the shore was like a lullaby, soothing her mind and body as she continued her peaceful walk along the water’s edge.

  • Graffiti street art

    graffiti street art

    Street art Graffiti

    At a vibrant Ringön street festival in Gothenburg, Sweden, a young graffiti artist emerges as a rising star. With his spray cans in hand, he stands before a massive sheet metal wall, a blank canvas waiting to be transformed. The festival buzzes with excitement as artists from all walks of life come together, but it’s the young guy, barely in his early twenties, who catches everyone’s attention.

    His style is unique,

    blending abstract shapes with vivid colors and bold lines. Each stroke of his spray can is deliberate, yet infused with a raw energy that reflects his youthful passion. He starts with a rough sketch, mapping out the design with quick, confident movements. The crowd watches in anticipation, intrigued by the intensity and focus in his eyes.

    As he works,

    the wall begins to come alive. The graffiti unfolds into a striking piece of art, a complex interplay of colors and forms that seem to leap off the wall. His work is more than just paint on concrete; it tells a story of urban life, of struggle and triumph, of dreams and realities. The young artist pours his heart into every detail, his creativity flowing freely as he navigates the challenges of the large-scale project.

    The festival atmosphere

    is electric, with music pulsing in the background and the smell of fresh paint in the air. Other artists nod in respect as they pass by, recognizing the talent in their midst. Spectators snap photos and videos, eager to capture the moment and share it with the world.

    As the day progresses, the young artist’s piece nears completion. Exhausted but exhilarated, he steps back to admire his work. The wall, once blank and ordinary, now bursts with color and life. His graffiti is not just art; it’s a statement, a reflection of his generation’s voice.

    By the end

    of the festival, the young artist has left his mark, not just on the wall, but on everyone who witnessed his creative process. His graffiti becomes a symbol of youthful expression, a reminder of the power of art to transform spaces and inspire communities.

  • Resting Man

    Resting man in Sorba, Almeria, Spain
    Resting man

    Resting man

    After a long, tiring day of work in the sweltering heat, there’s nothing better than finding a cool, shady spot to rest and unwind. For this resting man, that place happens to be a doorway. He sits there comfortably with a beer in his hand. He takes a sip and lets out a satisfied sigh. You can almost see the tension and exhaustion melt away from his body. It’s clear that this is a ritual for him, a moment of respite that he looks forward to after a hard day’s work. The sun beats down mercilessly, the heat radiates from the pavement and buildings, leaving everyone drained and tired. Probably he knows the value of hard work and is proud of what he has achieved today. May he be physically tired, but there is a sense of satisfaction and accomplishment on his face. He has given it his all and it was well worth it.

    Peace and quiet

    As the resting man sits there, he takes in his surroundings – the quiet streets, the people walking by and are talking. But for now he is away from it all and enjoying a moment of peace and quiet. The coolness of the shade and the refreshing taste of his beer soothe his body and mind. He takes a deep breath and closes his eyes, enjoying the stillness of the moment.

    Stressfull world

    In a world where everyone is constantly on the go, it’s important to take a break and recharge. This resting man understands the importance of self-care, even if it’s just for a few moments. When he opens his eyes and takes another sip of his beer, he knows he must soon get up and continue his journey. But for now, he’s content to sit in this doorway and bask in life’s simple pleasures—a beer, a shady spot, and a moment of peace. And it’s moments like these that make the hard work and heat worth it.

  • coffelady

    Coffelady
    Coffelady

  • Alhambra

    alhambra in granada photo
    The Alhambra is a palace and fortress complex located in Granada, Andalusia, Spain. 

  • Walk in the sun

    walk in sun photo
    On the way from the dock in Roquetas de mar in the south of Spain. This photo is taken second of January 2023.