Step through the time portal and enter a world where crystals grow on trees and fossils are shaped by the forces of the planets at the KALK Geological Museum.
The special exhibition “Not of This Earth” offers a sensory experience of the medieval understanding of the evolution of nature.
With artisan Esben Horn’s spectacular and oversized models, the exhibition offers visitors the chance to step into a dark and gloomy world where their knowledge of the present no longer applies.
“‘Not of This Earth’ isinteresting because it takes magic seriously as a human way of understanding the world—not as superstition, but as a logical system. It allows the audience to experience the magical thinking of the past from the inside, through sensory, atmospheric spaces. At the same time, it reflects our present, where magical rituals and faith in technology still shape our reality,” says Esben Horn of Studio Megaton about the new exhibition.
From Magic and Religion to the Scientific Method
The exhibition takes visitors through seven explanatory models from the past. It then paints a picture of the scientific method, exemplified by Nicolaus Steno, the founder of geology and one of the pioneers of the scientific way of thinking as we know it today.
“As a geologist, it has been a fun challenge to turn things upside down and let the fantastic explanations of the past take center stage. They beautifully highlight the huge leap in our understanding of the world that scientific methods have brought about—and continue to bring about—in terms of new knowledge about the world around us,” says Jesper Milàn, curator at KALK.
“Not of This Earth” is an experience for both children and adults and is perfect for a trip during winter break, when the weather might call for indoor activities. In connection with the exhibition, KALK has also updated the arts-and-crafts area with new tables and activities, especially for younger guests.
The special exhibition “Not ofThis Earth”was made possible with support from the Augustinus Foundation and the Knud Højgaard Foundation.
“Not of This Earth” will be open to visitors on February 7, 2026. KALK will be open during weeks 7 and 8 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Additional info:
Museum Curator Jesper Milàn: jesperm@oesm.dk
Artisan Esben Horn: horn@10tons.dk