Millie Behrens, Toril Bjorg, Liv Blåvarp, Veronica Cheann, Josephine Echer, Kristine Ervik, Ingvild Reinton Felis, Ingjerd Hanevold, Tamara Marbl Joka, Aron Li, Camilla Luihn, Konrad Mehus, Heidi Sand, Mitra Shamloo, Philipp Spillmann, Felieke van der Leest, Dariusz Wojdyga
It all began on an autumn day in 2021. Hege was captivated by Ingjerd Hanevold's jewelry, and during the spring of 2022 she purchased several of Hanevold's pieces. This was followed by countless visits to galleries and artists' studios, where her interest in contemporary jewelry truly took shape. She began collecting works by a growing number of contemporary jewelry artists, laying the foundation for today's collection.
After only five years of passionately collecting contemporary jewelry, the collection now consists of nearly 300 works. Dahlgren actively follows developments within Norwegian contemporary jewelry, and the collection has a clear focus on jewelry artists based in Norway. A central part of her dedication to the field has been following the work of students in the Metal and Jewelry Art programme at the Oslo National Academy of the Arts. Dahlgren also keeps close track of established jewelry artists through studio visits, exhibitions, and artist talks. Her relationships with the artists are of great importance, as jewelry carries deeply personal narratives and creates a unique connection between artist and wearer.
Through building the collection, Dahlgren has experienced meaningful meetings with artists and engaging conversations with gallerists and curators. Jewelry has become a significant and essential part of her life and identity. She wears pieces from the collection every day and follows two guiding principles that define the collection: every work is purchased with the heart, and every work is meant to be worn.
In this exhibition, Hege Dahlgren presents a selection from her jewelry collection. It is a collection that reflects personal choices and a deep commitment, while also offering insight into the development, diversity, and quality of contemporary Norwegian jewelry art.