– When I read the job posting, it struck me that there were quite a few connecting threads. It was as if it spoke to me. Here was someone actually announcing something I’m passionate about, Sandvik says.
The first thing she did when she returned home from Oslo two years ago was to set up a large pop-up exhibition in collaboration with Bodø2024.
– I’ve always had a strong creative drive, and I enjoy initiating projects that carry meaning for many people — and jobs like that don’t exactly grow on trees. So the role as general manager of Hot & Salty became a natural part of the decision to stay in Bodø rather than moving back to Oslo, Sandvik says.
Background in culture and production
Sandvik holds a degree in drama and theatre production from Volda University College, and has several years of experience as a freelancer in TV and film production in Oslo.
– I was originally supposed to work in theater, but I ended up in the TV industry somewhat by coincidence. I’ve worked on a number of productions in recent years, from Skal vi danse and Paradise Hotel to Four Star Dinner, she says.
She has also been involved with Musikkfestuka and Stormen Concert Hall in recent years, and sees many opportunities to build bridges between culture and urban life at Ramsalt.
– Whether it’s an exhibition opening, a concert at Sinus, or a cultural festival, it’s essentially about the same thing: creating a gathering point and an experience for others. Now I get to use all the experience I have to help build a place that brings both calm and vibrancy, she smiles.
Collaboration and urban life
Sandvik sees great potential in collaborating with other players in the area.
“I see myself as a ‘yes-person’ — someone who can help create connections and make things happen that perhaps haven’t been possible before,” she says, pointing to the potential of linking Hot & Salty with experiences that already exist in the neighborhood.
She sees strong opportunities for collaboration with, for example, Quality Hotel Ramsalt, BRIM, and Rampen — in addition to the many other actors in the Ramsalt district, and even partners from elsewhere in the city.
“Much of what’s already here is, in itself, an experience. And then there’s so much more we can develop further — like yoga, mindfulness, and sauna rituals connected to Hot & Salty, and eventually perhaps even concerts and small festivals in the area,” Sandvik says.
A natural part of the city’s rhythm
For Sandvik, it’s about creating a gathering place that offers both rest and energy.
“I see the place as a resting pulse — but we also need to make room for things that create a bit of spark, such as festivals, music, and events. Activities that bring energy to a place,” she says.
When she imagines the finished venue, one idea keeps coming back to her:
“I imagine Hot & Salty becoming a natural part of the city’s pulse. A place where people can gather to unwind after work, celebrate an occasion, or show visitors the best of Bodø. And if we manage to get a small stage set up on the Ramsalt quay, that would bring everything together. Then I get to use the whole package — sauna, music, production, and experiences. Then it’s just a matter of heating up the stove and welcoming people in,” Sandvik smiles.