Recently Marie Eck was appointed as new Pavilion Director of The Forest. Today the gates are opening.

– It is finally happening, she says. Taking on the role has been exciting, but also challenging.

What can we expect from the inauguration?

– There will be something for everyone, both for our partners, the public, and even an event for the children.

Later, at 7pm, well known Swedish artists Jireel, Cherrie, and Rickie Rich will enter the Co-creation stage, at the entrance level of the Swedish pavilion.

If you’re not one of the lucky ones able to experience the concert on site in the pavilion, you can see it live here on ExpoUpdate.se, the official Swedish media site.

– Like all culture, music, is very co-creating. You share the experience with the rest of the audience and the artists, it is truly something that you create in an interchange with others, says Marie Eck.

What does the forest symbolize?

– A lot. I love the forest. For me personally it is a source of inspiration, calm, and energy. You can go there, touch the trees and feel empowered and safe.

– But the forest also gives us as a society so much which you might not even think about. It gives us food, wooden structures, and clothes.

What can visitors of the exhibition expect?

– The Forest is something you have to experience yourself.

The construction of the pavilion, six months of everyday happenings and the creation of an arena for high level talks, learning and interchange is the largest Swedish effort to promote export business in decades.

– We wish it will entice interest in Sweden, and in our investment opportunities, says Marie Eck, and continues:

– The pavilion is not just for the visitors, it is also a place where our partners and sponsors can use the conference facilities for networking

What do you hope the visitors will remember?

– Something new, having planted a tree, or learned about Swedish innovation, to have been broadening their knowledge. I hope they will have both been receiving and giving.