"The Smoke Would Blow Towards the Russians" is an art project about the smelting plant Rönnskär in Skelleftehamn by Monica Larsson and Catrin Lundqvist. It is a thought-provoking exhibition about the smelting plant, its impact, and legacy.

Both artists have their roots in Västerbotten and have ancestors who were employed at Rönnskär works. Wille Varg-Larsson worked at the arsenic plant for 39 years, and Hilding Snus-Lundqvist was employed as a carpenter at Rönnskär for 17 years.

The emissions from the industry into the air and water have been devastating for the surrounding environment. The art project highlights this but also the prosperity and pride that working at Rönnskär has meant for many. The exhibition aims to create an aesthetic space for contemplation on the consequences of industrialism with Rönnskär as an example, and provide a platform for discussion on what this means for future generations.

How much can we tolerate industrial progress in relation to the surrounding environment and human health? And how is the vulnerable nature affected when new – green – extraction of Norrland's resources is in full swing?

The exhibition is produced in collaboration with MAN/Museum Anna Nordlander.