CHART Art Fair 2023: celebrating Nordic contemporary art and architecture

The Nordic art scene was once again dazzled and inspired as the highly anticipated CHART Art Fair returned for its 11th edition from August 24th to 27th, 2023. Initiated by local art galleries, CHART 2023 brought together 37 exhibitors from across the Nordic region, transforming Kunsthal Charlottenborg into a vibrant hub of artistic expression. The art fair has become a cherished annual tradition, embodying the essence of Copenhagen's effortlessly chic and exclusive atmosphere. Rather than expanding geographically, CHART maintains its focus on deepening connections within the regional audience and fostering a sense of family among Northern European art enthusiasts.

Kunsthal Charlottenborg, nestled in the picturesque Nyhavn district, sets the stage for this extraordinary gathering. The fair's setting is not just a trade show, but an immersive curated exhibition that showcases contemporary art in the best possible light – literally. The palace's light-filled rooms provide a unique backdrop that enhances the viewing experience, transforming the event into a celebration of artistic beauty.

In a departure from the trend of global mega fairs, CHART unites the complete Nordic art ecosystem, rejoicing in the diversity of local market and community. As a non-profit entity, CHART champions Nordic values that encompass aesthetics, social consciousness, democratic ideals, progressive thought, and collaborative ethos, transcending boundaries.

Under the dynamic leadership of the fair’s new director, Julie Quottrup Silbermann, CHART Art Fair 2023 implemented inventive avenues for engagement with the art world. A notable project, "Start Collecting with CHART," aims to kindle the passion for collecting among new and first-time buyers. The initiative features works priced under DKK 20,000 (circa € 2.700), and by fostering transparency in the price tag and making the installation free to access, CHART actively invites a wider audience to engage with the art market.

One of the most thrilling aspects of this year's fair is the collaboration between CHART and the Tivoli Gardens, Copenhagen's iconic amusement park. Curated by Julie Tvillinggaard Bonde, this exhibition seamlessly weaves contemporary art into the vibrant tapestry of Tivoli's landscapes. Sixteen artists, including FOS, Benedikte Bjerre, and Sylvie Fleury, presented site-specific artworks that interact with the park's visual and thematic elements.

The curator's vision places these sculptures amidst Tivoli's sensory abundance, creating a harmonious blend of art and entertainment. The artworks become an integral part of the park's enchanting environment, offering a fresh perspective on both art and leisure. Touching on the essence of this collaboration, Silbermann says, "CHART in Tivoli speaks to the core of our mission to bring the best of contemporary art in the Nordics out into the public space."

In sync with Copenhagen's designation as UNESCO's World Capital of Architecture, CHART Art Fair 2023 hosted the ninth edition of its annual architecture competition. This year's theme, inspired by the New European Bauhaus movement, emphasise on aesthetics, inclusion, and sustainability. Emerging architect teams have risen to the occasion, crafting five proposals that graced the historic courtyards of Charlottenborg during the fair and functioned as the beverage and food stations that served the visitors.

The winning team, Plan Noll, presented the installation, Off-The-Shelf. This ingenious design not only captures the aesthetics of a baroque palace but achieves this vision using sustainable "off-the-shelf" materials such as corrugated fiberglass sheets and galvanized steel scaffolding. Gert Wingårdh, speaking on behalf of the jury, praised the unique fit of the pavilion to its surroundings, noting its accessibility and sustainability.

Anton Boman, part of the winning team, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to blend artistry with architecture, reflecting the fair's commitment to pushing boundaries and facilitating innovative collaborations.

CHART Art Fair 2023 once again transcended the boundaries of a traditional art fair, spotlighting the Nordic spirit of social awareness, inclusivity, and collaborative innovation. From the stunning booths at fair to the intriguing installations in Tivoli and the architectural feats that celebrate both aesthetics and sustainability, CHART continues to be a beacon of inspiration and an anticipated event for artists, collectors, and art enthusiasts alike.