Erling
Credits
Location: Sanatorium, Frydenlundgata 14, 0269 Oslo
Collection: Sanatorium – madeinsane
Brand: Sanatorium
Erling Johansen
Born: 1964
Role: Model · Explorer · Cultural Contributor · Honorary Consul
Erling Johansen lives a life shaped by the intersections of business, culture, and nature. With decades of experience as a project leader and board member across various industries, both in Norway and internationally, he is no stranger to challenge — and thrives on collaboration, transformation, and human connection.
He has served as Honorary Consul for Latvia for over 20 years, giving him firsthand insight into major historical shifts in Europe. He has also lived and worked in the Balkans, and remains an eager traveler — with Africa next on his destination list, following years of engagement across Europe, Asia, and the Americas.
Interests & Identity
A lifelong lover of music, photography, literature, and history, Erling plays multiple instruments, writes, and documents the world through his lens. He’s also passionate about good food and drink, and has led the Norwegian Association of Whisky Connoisseurs for nearly 40 years — with frequent pilgrimages to Scotland.
More recently, he has embraced a simpler, more outdoor-oriented lifestyle. Whether at his traditional mountain cabin in Heidal, Gudbrandsdalen, paddling a kayak, skiing on Svalbard, or camping under the stars, Erling seeks presence in wild places. He also works as a guide for ski and hiking tours.
On Camera
In recent years, Erling has taken on more modeling assignments — both for photo and film. Often asked to simply be himself, he also steps effortlessly into character-driven roles.
Common themes in his work include:
- Outdoor life & nature gear
- Nordic mythology / Viking roles
- Wise man / grandfather archetypes
- Fashion editorials with depth and contrast
Equally comfortable in shorts and tunics as in a tailored suit, Erling balances groundedness with flair. He’s just as likely to be found playing his didgeridoo as he is engaging in thoughtful conversation around a fire.
Erling is a natural collaborator — curious, reliable, creative — and brings a unique presence to every production. He thrives in the company of inspiring, kind people who show up and deliver.
