Oslo-based designer Live Berg has curated the opening exhibition at D142, a new concept store and gallery dedicated to showcasing Norwegian art, design, and culture. The inaugural show, titled "Chef's Kiss," features works from 20 emerging and established Norwegian artists and designers, creating what Berg describes as a "delicious tasting menu" for visitors to enjoy.
D142 is located in Oslo's trendy Grünerløkka neighborhood and was founded by Iranian-born photographer and stylist Neshat. The space serves as both a retail shop and exhibition gallery, positioning itself as "a vibrant meeting point where art, design and culture merge." The venue aims to provide a platform for young and emerging creatives across various disciplines, highlighting the diversity of Norway's contemporary art scene.
Berg explained the concept behind the exhibition's culinary theme, stating, "Chef's kiss is an expression of pure appreciation, a gesture to say something is simply excellent. We've prepared a delicious tasting menu of art and design for you to enjoy. Bon appétit!" The exhibition brings together 20 talented individuals from the Norwegian capital, showcasing the breadth and quality of local creative output.
The gallery's interior design features a striking pink shelving unit filled with handcrafted objects, including a sculptural piece by designer Ali Shah Gallefoss, a wooden stool by Anna Maria Øfstedal Eng, and a marble vase by artist Kaja Dahl. A mirrored wall serves as a dramatic backdrop for works by artists Mingshu Li and Ida Siebke, which are displayed on distinctive cross-shaped columns alongside a pair of stools created by design duo Aula.
The shop window display showcases several standout pieces that draw visitors into the space. These include a plaster-coated stool by designer Nebil Zaman, a 3D-printed totem by digital artist Rasmus Stride, a table by designer Poppy Lawman, and a hanging textile work by artist Ida Hagen. The arrangement creates an inviting preview of the treasures waiting inside the gallery.
One of the exhibition's most intriguing elements is located at the rear of the space, where textile artist Tonje Plur has installed one of her clothed figures from "Savage," her acclaimed 2021 exhibition at Oslo's Hulias gallery. This piece adds an element of surprise and demonstrates the gallery's commitment to presenting thought-provoking contemporary art alongside functional design objects.
The exhibition also features a comprehensive collection of two-dimensional works, including paintings, drawings, and photographic prints. These pieces are contributed by a diverse group of artists: Esra Røise, Dalia Karg, Siren Lauvdal, Linda Flø, Ruben Maclean, Kristoffer Scheie, Tomas Kidane, and Marvin Pope. Among these is "Remnants," an illustration by Esra Røise that exemplifies the gallery's commitment to showcasing various artistic mediums.
Founder Neshat brings extensive international experience to the project, having worked in Milan, Shanghai, and Beijing before settling in Oslo. Born in Kurdistan, she has developed a global perspective that informs D142's mission. "The aim of D142 is to create a platform that builds bridges between creative communities, invites dialogue and engagement, and highlights the diversity of expressions and the people behind them," Neshat explained.
The gallery opened its doors at the beginning of October, with Neshat hoping it will become a central hub for Oslo's art and design community. Through exhibitions, events, and curated collections, D142 seeks to increase visibility and appreciation for the Norwegian creative scene. Neshat emphasized the timely nature of this mission, noting that "craftsmanship, sustainability and personal expression matter more than ever" in today's cultural landscape.
The "Chef's Kiss" exhibition represents just the beginning of D142's ambitious programming. The space is designed to host rotating exhibitions, special events, and curated collections that will continue to spotlight both emerging and established Norwegian talent. This approach reflects a growing recognition of Norway's significant contributions to contemporary art and design on the international stage.
