Among the contributors to Åsadalen’s programme is an ambassador: Sören “Sulo” Karlsson. His participation is visionary in spirit and will highlight the vital role of culture in society.

– It’s the same with visions as with dreams. If you never dare to dream of something that brings about positive change, then you will never achieve anything, says Sören “Sulo” Karlsson, speaking about his involvement in the mini-series of talks We Need to Talk About, which takes as its starting point our need for visions.

A call for belief in the future
In today’s bleakly painted present, many are calling for belief in the future, for new goals and tangible dreams of a brighter tomorrow. Yet political visions for society seem to have become increasingly muddled – if they exist at all.

Sulo explains:

– The big challenge for today’s politicians is to rediscover the foundations of politics: values and visions – to lean on an ideological conviction that ultimately gives people hope for a better future.

– That said, every political ideology must always be questioned in light of different times and circumstances, if it is to remain progressive. Right now, belief in the future is in desperately short supply.

A local ambassador
Back in 2021, Sulo was named Ambassador of Katrineholm municipality – an award recognising his long-standing cultural work, often returning to his hometown.

Throughout his adult life Sulo has worked primarily as a musician and songwriter. Since the 1990s he has been the lead singer of rock band Diamond Dogs – formed in Katrineholm – and has collaborated with a wide range of Swedish and international artists across musical genres.

He has practically made it a sport to appear in contexts as varied as being a duet partner to Kikki Danielsson, writing songs for the dance band Larz Kristerz, or playing roaring rock with the old punk heroes KSMB.

Now also an author
In recent years, Sulo has also made a name for himself as an author, publishing biographies including one on former UEFA president Lennart Johansson and another on his friend Kikki Danielsson. He is now working on a book about Thåström’s years as an industrial rocker.

All of these cultural achievements, along with Sulo’s political interest, underpin his appearance at Åsadalen. He will speak about the necessity of making culture accessible to all, regardless of background or bank balance.

– It’s a right that has unfortunately been sidelined as governments cut funding, demand financial profitability and neglect cultural policy in the public debate.

“More important than ever”
He is looking forward to his visit to Åsadalen and welcomes the event’s focus on visions.

– Raising the subject of visions beyond the tabloids and highlighting the value of a functioning democracy is more important than ever in these times.

Alongside Sören “Sulo” Karlsson, the series also features lectures by Birger Schlaug and Lisa Bjurwald.

Text: Henrik Wising
Photo: Margareta B Sandebäck