The International Museum of Children’s Art in Oslo has exhibited art from young creators worldwide for 40 years. Now, it faces challenges due to a loss of state funding. The museum opened in 1986, displaying pieces like Soviet children’s responses to the Chernobyl disaster and drawings from Afghan girls attending clandestine schools.

Among the artworks are contributions from Ukrainian children at a war-destroyed art center and pieces created during the Covid pandemic. The museum serves as a time capsule, capturing world events from the perspective of the young. The collection includes sketches, paintings, and sculptures from toddlers to teenagers, some of which could fit seamlessly on a home refrigerator.

Classical musician Ashild Breie Nyhus highlighted the museum’s importance at a benefit concert, emphasizing its unique view of history through children’s expressive artwork. The closure threat arises as Norway’s government has withdrawn the essential funding supporting the museum for decades. Director Angela Goldin is actively searching for solutions to preserve the museum and its collection of over 100,000 pieces. She expressed disbelief at the notion of the museum lacking value, amidst efforts to clear storage spaces.

The museum’s origins trace back to a family project initiated by Ms. Goldin’s stepfather, Rafael Goldin, who emigrated from the Soviet Union. His film explored children’s worldviews, planting the seeds for this establishment.