Oslo, Norway – Shoot Gallery, a pre-eminent private gallery in Oslo dedicated to fine art photography, has unveiled its new and expanded premises in the dynamic Barcode district. Since its inception in 2013, Shoot Gallery has pursued an ambitious mission to showcase the pinnacle of Norwegian fine art photography with a keen eye towards international acclaim.
A recent visit to this sophisticated new space revealed a seamless blend of aesthetic refinement and practical functionality. The gallery’s modern sliding doors usher visitors into an expansive area designed to accommodate a classic-sized wall horizon, an ideal setting for displaying fine art photography in its most evocative form.
Helene Gulaker Hansen, the visionary at the helm of Shoot Gallery, holds a Master of Science in International Marketing and a Bachelor of Arts from St. Martins in London. With over a decade of experience in fine art photography, Hansen’s curatorial acumen is deeply informed and innovative. In an illuminating conversation with DT 500 MAG, Hansen expounded on the nuances distinguishing her role from more conventional professions.
DT 500 MAG: – What differentiates a curator or gallerist from standard professions like a lawyer, economist, or politician?
HELENE: – While the foundation—education, knowledge, training, and industry expertise—is similar, the distinction lies in the necessity to trust and respect one’s emotional reactions to both the artwork and the clientele.
DT 500 MAG: -As one of Norway’s most progressive gallerists, who do you see as your competitor, or which gallery do you admire?
HELENE: –Is anyone privileged to engage with the works of Francesca Woodman?
[ Woodman, an American photographer, was renowned for her black-and-white self-portraits and produced over 800 untitled prints in her brief career. Her work, marked by recurring motifs such as birds, mirrors, and skulls, draws frequent comparisons to Surrealists like Hans Bellmer and Man Ray. ]
DT 500 MAG: -What attributes make a gallery honourable?
HELENE: –Great art, undoubtedly. Yet, it is equally vital that the gallery is accessible, welcoming both the seasoned art aficionado and the first-time visitor with equal ease.
DT 500 MAG: What aspects of your Shoot Gallery concept might other gallerists envy?
HELENE: – The combination of curated exhibitions and a market section. This dual approach allows visitors to experience a diverse array of artworks in one place.
The relocation from Parkveien to Barcode was a strategic move, aligning with the district’s burgeoning cultural landscape and engaging the architectural prowess of Snøhetta, renowned for their work on the Norwegian Opera House. Barcode, now a nexus for the arts, is home to 10,000 professionals daily, promising a diverse and engaged audience for Shoot Gallery.
DT 500 MAG: –Which personal characteristics contribute to your innovative approach?
HELENE: –Championing our finest Norwegian artists on an equal footing with top international artists. They merit the global brand “Norwegian Photography.”
DT 500 MAG: –If all national galleries and museums were on fire, which single art piece would you save?
HELENE: –Per Maning’s “Oscar,” a large format analogue print. Pure magic.
DT 500 MAG: –What was the last unforgettable impression you had in fine art?
HELENE: –Eric Antoine’s wet collodion glass plates.
DT 500 MAG: -How do you cultivate creativity in your daughters?
HELENE: –My daughters regularly accompany me to art events, integrating the joy of art into our daily lives. Joy is essential.
About Shoot Gallery:
Established in 2013, Shoot Gallery is a distinguished private gallery in Oslo, dedicated to the exhibition and promotion of fine art photography. The gallery’s relocation to Barcode marks a significant milestone in its mission to elevate Norwegian photography on the international stage, providing an enhanced space for artists and visitors to engage with the world of fine art photography.
Talk by Arthur Sopin
Photography by Andreas Roed
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