A selftaught, Arne Mælen is a daring and innovative 'wood-man'; his blend of the old traditional craftmanship and experimental thinking makes him a big favourite for Official Gifts and Prizes, -- e.g. Hordaland County's gift to King Harald in 1995, to the Royal Crown Prince and Crown Princess in 2002, the Nordic Board of Ministers in 2003.

He has traveled and exhibited in many countries, and received many prizes for his work, -- e.g., First prize Craftmanship in Minot, USA, and first prize Design in wood, Rennebu, Norway.

His recent work was commissioned by the University of Bergen, Norway (2007-2008).

Arne Mælen is also the creator and owner of Hardanger Kulturgalleri at the heart of Hardangerfjord, Norway