Several of the gallerists involved had previously expressed an interest in going to Norway in order to learn more about Norwegian art and the art scene in Norway. Based on this interest, the embassy thought it a good idea to organise a study trip for interested owners and managers. The goal was that the participants would come back with a much deeper insight into Norway, Norwegian art and how the Norwegian art institutions work.
The group spent most of their time in Oslo, where they visited art galleries, museums, arts management and public funding institutions. The gallerists were very interested to see how government funding makes non-profit institutions possible in Norway, while similar organisations in China have to transform themselves into semi-commercial entities in order to survive. At the same time, interest for art is sky-rocketing in China and the market for art is also growing fast.
The group also travelled to Stavanger which was designated European Capital of Culture in 2008. Stavanger has been known for being the oil and gas capital of Norway, but in recent years the city government has made a conscious and concerted effort to promote culture in a variety of forms in the city. This combination of fast-paced development and culture is perhaps particularly relevant in a Chinese context.
The embassy has previously sponsored study trips on a wide range of topics. Last year, a group of architects travelled to Norway to get a feel for new Norwegian architecture. A trip that sparked an interest among the participants and which has resulted in increased cooperation between Norwegian and Chinese institutions. Hopefully, this year’s trip will prove to be a similar kind of facilitating platform.