HOLT IVERSEN NEWS – Provided by Holt Iversen Ateliers

Art Athina: Celebrating 30 Years of Creativity in the Heart of Athens

A Beacon of Artistry in a Changing Greece

Introduction: The Artistic Renaissance of Greece

Greece, a country steeped in history and renowned for its contributions to the worlds of philosophy, literature, and art, has been experiencing a cultural renaissance in recent years. As the country emerges from a period of economic turmoil and political change, it has found itself at the center of a flourishing art scene that is attracting global attention. At the forefront of this creative resurgence is “Art Athina,” the largest international art fair in Athens, Greece, which is celebrating its remarkable 30-year anniversary as one of Europe’s oldest and most prestigious art fairs.

In this comprehensive article, we delve into the heart of Art Athina and explore how this event has become a symbol of the thriving art world in Greece and the surrounding countries. We also spotlight one of the newest entrants to the Art Athina stage, the Cypriot gallery “The Edit Gallery,” and the captivating work of their represented artist, Johannes Holt Iversen.

Art Athina 2023 was held at the Zappeion Palace Hall

Art Athina: A Journey Through Three Decades of Creativity

The Genesis of Art Athina

Art Athina traces its roots back to 1993 when it was founded by the Hellenic Art Galleries Association. At its inception, the art fair aimed to provide a platform for Greek contemporary artists and galleries to showcase their talents to a global audience. The event’s mission was to bridge the gap between the vibrant Greek art scene and the international art market, fostering cross-cultural dialogue and exchange.

Evolution and Growth

Over the years, Art Athina has evolved and expanded, drawing galleries and artists from around the world. What began as a local affair has transformed into a global celebration of contemporary art, attracting collectors, curators, and art enthusiasts from every corner of the globe. The fair’s commitment to showcasing innovative and cutting-edge works has solidified its reputation as a must-visit event on the international art calendar.

A Reflection of Greece’s Resilience

Art Athina’s enduring success is a testament to the resilience of Greece’s cultural community. Despite the challenges posed by economic downturns and political instability, the fair has persevered, serving as a beacon of hope and creativity in the heart of Athens. It stands as a symbol of the Greek art world’s determination to thrive in the face of adversity.

Highlights from Past Editions

Throughout its three-decade history, Art Athina has featured an impressive array of artworks, exhibitions, and cultural initiatives. Notable highlights from past editions include groundbreaking installations, thought-provoking performances, and thoughtfully curated exhibitions that have pushed the boundaries of contemporary art.

During the VIP Preview at Art Athina 2023 seen at booth L18 at The Edit Gallery Cyprus

Art Athina 2023: A Milestone Celebration

The 30th Anniversary Extravaganza

The 30th edition of Art Athina, held in 2023, promised to be an unforgettable celebration of creativity and resilience. This milestone edition aimed to reflect on the fair’s journey and its role in shaping the Greek and international art scenes. Under the theme of “30 Years of Artistic Evolution,” the fair showcased the best of contemporary art while paying homage to its rich history.

The Edit Gallery’s Debut

One of the notable newcomers to Art Athina in 2023 was “The Edit Gallery,” a Cypriot art gallery with a burgeoning reputation for its commitment to promoting emerging artists from Cyprus and beyond. Their debut at Art Athina was met with excitement and anticipation, as art enthusiasts and collectors eagerly awaited the opportunity to experience their unique perspective.

Spotlight on Johannes Holt Iversen

One of the Edit Gallery’s represented artists who made a significant impact during the fair was Johannes Holt Iversen. A Danish-born artist, Iversen’s work from his “Lascaux” series garnered widespread attention. The Athenian magazine LIFO even featured his artwork on its front cover, making him a talk of the town in Athens during the art fair week. His work, characterized by its mesmerizing exploration of the relationship between nature and technology, resonated deeply with the fair’s attendees.

The Intersection of Tradition and Innovation

Art Athina 2023 embodied the spirit of the Greek art scene—where tradition and innovation intersect to create something truly extraordinary. It showcased a diverse range of artistic practices, from traditional painting and sculpture to multimedia installations and interactive art experiences. This amalgamation of old and new, of the classical and the contemporary, offered visitors a unique insight into the multifaceted world of modern Greek art.

Art Athina: A Catalyst for Change

The Impact on the Local Art Scene

Beyond its role as an international art fair, Art Athina has had a profound impact on the local art scene in Greece. It has provided a vital platform for Greek artists and galleries to gain exposure on a global stage. Many emerging artists have had their breakthrough moments at Art Athina, and local galleries have expanded their reach beyond national borders.

Nurturing Cross-Cultural Exchange

Art Athina’s commitment to fostering cross-cultural exchange has facilitated meaningful connections between artists, collectors, and curators from diverse backgrounds. This cultural exchange has not only enriched the fair itself but has also had a ripple effect on the broader artistic community in Greece and neighboring countries.

The Future of Art Athina

As Art Athina enters its fourth decade, it does so with a sense of optimism and anticipation. The fair’s ability to adapt and evolve in response to changing times is a testament to its enduring relevance. It continues to be a vital force in shaping the artistic landscape of Greece and the broader region.

Booth L18 The Edit Gallery Cyprus during Art Athina 2023

Conclusion: A Bright Future for Greek Art

Art Athina’s 30th anniversary celebration served as a powerful reminder of the resilience of the Greek art world and its ability to thrive in the face of adversity. It showcased the remarkable talent that resides within Greece and the broader region, while also highlighting the transformative power of art in times of change.

With the addition of galleries like “The Edit Gallery” and artists like Johannes Holt Iversen, Art Athina continues to push the boundaries of contemporary art and nurture a thriving creative community. As Greece emerges from its tumultuous past, the country’s art scene stands as a beacon of hope and a testament to the enduring power of human expression.

As we look to the future, it is clear that Art Athina will play a pivotal role in shaping the artistic landscape of Greece and the surrounding countries, ensuring that the region remains a vibrant hub of creativity for generations to come.

Navigating Turbulence Through Talent: Enter Art Fair 2023 Showcases Resilience of the Art Market

COPENHAGEN — Amidst a backdrop of economic uncertainty and rising inflation, Enter Art Fair 2023 illuminated the heart of Copenhagen’s art scene with a resounding celebration of creativity and resilience. This year’s edition, the largest and most successful to date, showcased not only the unwavering spirit of established artists but also the bold ingenuity of emerging talents, underlining the art market’s enduring strength in the face of adversity.

Navigating Turbulence: A Showcase of Resilience

Enter Art Fair, Scandinavia’s premier international art event, stood as a testament to the capacity of the art market to thrive in challenging times. Against the tapestry of global economic turmoil, the fair drew attention to the remarkable resilience of artists, collectors, and institutions alike. “The galleries at Enter Art Fair experienced record-breaking sales,” noted Julie Leopold Alf, the Founder and CEO of the event, emphasizing the positive sentiment and buoyant outlook that attendees brought to the market.

Overview of Enter Art Fair 2023 overview of Annika Nuttall Gallery booth

Elevating Emerging Artists: A Platform for Innovation

Enter Art Fair has solidified its reputation as a launching pad for emerging artists, empowering them to share their talent with a worldwide audience alongside established luminaries. This year, the fair’s 89 galleries from 22 different countries curated presentations that captivated over 20,000 visitors. The resounding success of the event was further underscored by the galleries’ reports of exceptional sales to private collectors, museums, and foundations.

Johannes Holt Iversen (DK) during Enter Art Fair 2023

Galleri Benoni during Enter Art Fair 2023

Sales Surge and New Horizons

The fair saw a record-breaking fervor for acquisitions, with galleries reporting remarkable sales. Astonishingly, large-scale artworks changed hands within the first few hours of the event. Loyal collectors returned to the fair, but it was the influx of new collectors and leading institutions that truly exemplified the market’s dynamism. This resonated with Stefan von Bartha of von Bartha, Basel and Copenhagen, who remarked, “We always have a fantastic experience at Enter Art Fair.”

VIP Preview Opening of Enter Art Fair 2023

Diversity and Dynamism: A New Chapter

Diversity was the hallmark of Enter Art Fair 2023, as traditional paintings coexisted harmoniously with multimedia installations, sculptures, digital creations, and performance pieces. This fusion of mediums not only showcased the boundless imagination of contemporary artists but also mirrored the evolving tastes of a digital-savvy audience.

Enter Art Fair 2023. Photo: Julie Nymann

Voices of the Art World: Innovation in Adversity

Amid conversations with the fair’s organizers, the theme of innovation emerged as a driving force. Adapting to shifting dynamics in buyer preferences, galleries and artists displayed an acute awareness of the changing art landscape. Jane Anderson, an art market analyst, noted, “Art has a unique ability to transcend economic fluctuations,” emphasizing that collectors now seek more than just artworks – they seek narratives, emotions, and cultural heritage.

Legacy of Inspiration

As the curtains closed on Enter Art Fair 2023, a lasting legacy remained. The fair’s celebration of creativity, resilience, and innovation sent a beacon of hope resonating throughout the art world. In a time marked by economic uncertainty, the event proved that creativity flourishes unbounded. The artists, their creations breathing life into the halls, reminded us that even in the face of uncertainty, art remains a steadfast expression of the human spirit.

Erdogan Zumrutoglu during Enter Art Fair 2023

Global Art Community: Bound by Inspiration

Beyond the impressive acquisitions, Enter Art Fair 2023 fostered a sense of interconnectedness in the global art community. Collectors, enthusiasts, and artists, departing from Copenhagen, carried home not just artworks but also a sense of inspiration and courage to chart new territories.

Frederik Næblerød (DK) during Enter Art Fair 2023

Conclusion: Thriving Amidst Turbulence

In the ever-shifting currents of economic turbulence, Enter Art Fair 2023 emerged as a beacon of strength for the art market. It served as a testament to both the enduring resilience of the established art world and the daring spirit of emerging creators. Amidst the challenges of our times, this celebration of human ingenuity underscores the fact that creativity knows no bounds, continuously inspiring generations of artists, collectors, and enthusiasts to redefine the boundaries of art even amidst the most daunting challenges.

Visitors during Enter Art Fair 2023. Photo: Julie Nymann

KunstRai 2023: A Spectacle of Artistic Excellence and Resilience

In the wake of the global pandemic, the art world has faced unprecedented challenges. However, as the world gradually emerges from the shadows of COVID-19, artistic communities are reclaiming their spaces and celebrating the power of creativity. One such testament to this resurgence is the KunstRai 2023, a prestigious art fair held in Amsterdam. In this article, we will delve into the essence of KunstRai, explore the participation of Galerie Duret Paris and the works of Johannes Holt Iversen, and finally, reflect on the promising future of the art world.

A Glimpse into the Legacy of KunstRai
KunstRai, also known as Art Amsterdam, has been a prominent fixture in the international art scene since its inception in 1985. The fair, originally conceived as an initiative to provide a platform for Dutch galleries to exhibit contemporary art, has evolved into an internationally acclaimed event. Over the years, KunstRai has garnered a reputation for showcasing a diverse range of artworks, attracting both established artists and emerging talents.

As a hub for contemporary art, KunstRai has been instrumental in fostering dialogue, inspiring creativity, and fostering new connections within the art community. The fair has served as a meeting point for artists, collectors, curators, and art enthusiasts, facilitating meaningful interactions and encouraging artistic exploration.

KunstRai’s commitment to showcasing the breadth and depth of artistic expression is reflected in its carefully curated selection of galleries and artists. The fair encompasses a wide array of mediums, including painting, sculpture, photography, video art, and installations, presenting a comprehensive snapshot of the contemporary art landscape.

Throughout its history, KunstRai has continually evolved and adapted to reflect the changing dynamics of the art world. It has embraced new trends, incorporated digital innovations, and expanded its international reach. This adaptability has allowed KunstRai to remain a vibrant and relevant platform, offering a glimpse into the ever-evolving realm of contemporary art.

Art Viewers Investigating the Works of Johannes Holt Iversen at the Booth of Galerie Duret Paris

Galerie Duret and Johannes Holt Iversen’s Creative Synergy
Among the multitude of exhibitors at KunstRai 2023, one Paris-based gallery stood out for its unique artistic vision and exceptional curation. Galerie Duret, known for its commitment to promoting contemporary art, mesmerized art enthusiasts with its stunning display. The gallery’s collaboration with the international visual artist Johannes Holt Iversen became the talk of the town

Galerie Duret, founded in Paris, has a long-standing reputation for discovering emerging talents and providing them a platform to showcase their creativity. With a profound belief in the power of art to transcend boundaries, Galerie Duret has been instrumental in fostering meaningful connections between artists and art lovers.

Johannes Holt Iversen, an emerging artist on the international art scene, captivated visitors with his thought-provoking and visually stunning creations. Born in 1989, the young artist has already made a name for himself with his distinctive style and unique perspective. His works blend abstract elements with figurative elements, creating a harmonious convergence of emotions and ideas.

Iversen’s artistic journey is a testament to his commitment to pushing boundaries and challenging traditional norms. His exploration of different mediums, including painting, sculpture, and installation, showcases his versatility and innovative spirit. The artist’s ability to convey complex emotions through vivid color palettes and dynamic compositions is a testament to his artistic prowess.

In an interview with Collectors Agenda, Iversen revealed his artistic process, stating; “I want to create a visual language that communicates directly with the viewer’s subconscious, stirring emotions and challenging preconceived notions.” This commitment to evoking a visceral response in the audience was evident in his works displayed at KunstRai 2023.

Gallery Owner Mickael Adjadj and Visual Artist Johannes Holt Iversen

Galerie Duret Paris during KunstRai 2023

The Uprising of the Art World Post-Pandemic
As KunstRai 2023 brought together artists, galleries, collectors, and art enthusiasts from around the world, it became clear that the art world was experiencing a powerful resurgence. After the long hiatus imposed by the pandemic, the enthusiasm and energy radiating from the event were palpable.

The art world, like many other industries, faced tremendous challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. Gallery closures, canceled exhibitions, and limited physical interactions significantly impacted artists and their ability to showcase their work. However, as the world slowly recovers, a sense of optimism and renewal has permeated the art community.

Karel Appel showcased during KunstRai 2023 in Amsterdam

The corona pandemic has highlighted the indomitable spirit of artists who adapted to new circumstances, embraced technology, and found innovative ways to reach their audiences. Virtual exhibitions, online viewing rooms, and digital collaborations emerged as vital avenues for artistic expression during the lockdowns. As the art world recalibrated, these digital spaces not only provided a lifeline for artists but also expanded the global reach and accessibility of art.

The reopening of physical spaces and the resumption of art fairs and exhibitions, like KunstRai 2023, symbolize the art world’s reawakening. The palpable excitement and appreciation witnessed at the event underscored the enduring power of art to inspire, connect, and heal. The resilience of artists, gallerists, and art enthusiasts was evident in their unwavering commitment to supporting the arts and celebrating creativity.

Moreover, the pandemic forced a collective reevaluation of our relationship with art. As people sought solace, inspiration, and beauty amidst uncertainty, art became a refuge, a source of comfort, and a catalyst for reflection. This renewed appreciation for art’s transformative power has sparked a renewed interest in supporting artists and investing in the cultural fabric of society.

Art Visitors Browsing the Booth of Galerie Duret Paris during KunstRai 2023 in Amsterdam

The art world’s uprise after the corona pandemic is not just a return to normalcy; it is an opportunity for growth, introspection, and positive change. The challenges faced during the pandemic have sparked conversations about inclusivity, diversity, and sustainability within the art world. Artists and institutions are reimagining ways to amplify marginalized voices, challenge established narratives, and foster a more equitable and inclusive artistic landscape.

Furthermore, the pandemic’s disruption has encouraged a reevaluation of our priorities and values. As society grappled with profound existential questions, art became a vehicle for introspection, questioning societal norms, and imagining alternative futures. Artists, driven by the desire to make sense of the world, are creating works that address social justice, environmental issues, mental health, and human connection.

In conclusion, KunstRai 2023 stands as a testament to the resilience and creative spirit of the art world. The fair, with its rich history and commitment to showcasing diverse artistic expressions, serves as a catalyst for dialogue, discovery, and inspiration. The collaboration between Galerie Duret and Johannes Holt Iversen exemplifies the power of artistic synergy and the ability of art to transcend boundaries.

As the art world rises from the challenges of the corona pandemic, it carries with it the lessons learned, the innovations discovered, and the profound appreciation for art’s transformative power. With renewed optimism, the art world embraces the future, ready to embrace new ideas, foster meaningful connections, and continue to shape and inspire society through the unifying language of art.

Collaboration -& Exhibition at Edvard Munchs Studio in Ekely

Outside the center of Oslo is the area of Ekely. A hilly terrain with traditional Norwegian wooden houses side by side with brick houses and modern mid-century buildings. Here, artist communities have survived for generations and around the landscape there are numerous workshops and studio spaces. But an old classical building in particular catches the eye.

Edvard Munchs Studio Ekely during group exhibition with Christian Tony Norum (March 2023)

Back in 2016 the artists Johannes Holt Iversen and Christian Tony Norum met and worked in Edvard Munchs Studio. A brief visit during Norums residency at Ekely, that culminated in the collaboration on a collaborative oil painting. Seven years later in 2023 Christian Tony Norum invited Johannes Holt Iversen back again to join forces now forming a group exhibition developing a salon space with 38 participating artists.

Christian Tony Norum (left) and Johannes Holt Iversen (right)

In this historically loaded building and with the driving force of celebrating painting and sculpture; letting great masters of the past such as Asger Jorn, Sigmar Polke and Edvard Munch participate on equal terms with original works among the living artists (as if they were an awakened force of artistic nature in these tokens), the exhibition was taking past, present and future up for questioning. Even the format of the salon exhibition was taken back into play.

Edvard Munchs Studio at Ekely, Oslo (NO)

Collaborations at Edvard Munchs Studio in Ekely, Oslo (NO) March 2023

A table of oil paintings during collaborations at Edvard Munchs Studio in Ekely, Oslo (NO)

Asger Jorn (top left) Johannes Holt Iversen (top right) Christian Tony Norum (low left) Johannes Holt Iversen (low right)

Installation View 1: Group Exhibition at Edvard Munchs Studio in Ekely, Oslo (NO) 2023

Installation View 2: Group Exhibition at Edvard Munchs Studio in Ekely, Oslo (NO) 2023

Installation View 3: Group Exhibition at Edvard Munchs Studio in Ekely, Oslo (NO) 2023

The Art Market Thrives During the Recession: Wealthy Investors Turn to Art for Stability

Annika Nuttall Gallery during Enter Art Fair 2022

As the global economy faced a severe recession in 2022-2023, investors scrambled to find safe havens for their wealth. While many turned to traditional assets like gold and real estate, others found stability in the art market. In fact, the transfer of wealth from stocks to assets like contemporary art has boosted the art market, with art fairs, galleries, and blue-chip artists seeing significant gains.

Lascaux 1.8.15 beta (Wall Street Shaman) by Johannes Holt Iversen

According to the Contemporary Art Market Report 2022 by Artprice, the contemporary art market has seen significant growth in recent years. In 2022, the market reached a total of $1.6 billion in sales, with over 6,000 artists sold. This represents a 9.6% increase in sales from the previous year, and a 16% increase in the number of artists sold. The report also notes that the average price of works sold at auction increased by 5.5% in 2022.

The rise of digital platforms has made it easier for investors to access the art market, with online auctions and galleries becoming more prevalent. Artalistic.com predicts that the art market will continue to thrive in 2022 and beyond, as wealthy investors increasingly turn to art as a safe haven for their wealth. In addition, the website notes that art has historically performed well during times of economic uncertainty.

Annika Nuttall Gallery during Enter Art Fair 2022 in Copenhagen (DK)

Small galleries are also experiencing a surge in interest from wealthy investors. One such gallery is Annika Nuttal Gallery, which represents Danish artist Johannes Holt Iversen. Iversen has been on the rise in Europe since 2016, and his work has been shown at prestigious galleries and art fairs across the continent. Nuttal’s gallery has seen a significant uptick in interest in Iversen’s work, with investors looking for a stable and profitable investment in the art market.

Artsy.net outlines five key trends that defined the art market in 2022. These include the rise of digital platforms, an increase in private sales, the growing influence of Asia on the art market, the popularity of contemporary African art, and a renewed focus on female artists. These trends are expected to continue in 2023 and beyond, as the art market adapts to changing economic conditions and new technologies.

Visitors Inspecting Works during Art Herning 2023

Investment Art Blog Artelier.com also notes that art is a good investment in 2022 for a number of reasons. Firstly, it is a tangible asset that can be enjoyed and displayed, unlike stocks or bonds. Secondly, it has a low correlation with other asset classes, meaning that it can help to diversify an investment portfolio. Finally, art has historically performed well during times of economic uncertainty, making it a stable investment in turbulent times.

The resilience of contemporary art as an investment during the recession of 2022-2023 has been remarkable. While many other asset classes, such as stocks and real estate, saw significant losses, the contemporary art market held strong. This resilience can be attributed to the unique qualities of art as an asset, including its tangible nature and its ability to hold cultural and historical value.

In conclusion, the art market has proven to be a stable and profitable investment during the recession of 2022-2023. Wealthy investors have turned to art as a safe haven for their wealth, with small galleries, blue-chip artists, and digital platforms all seeing significant gains. As the art market adapts to changing economic conditions and new technologies, it is expected to continue to thrive in the years to come, offering investors a unique and rewarding opportunity to diversify their portfolios and invest in one of humanity’s oldest and most enduring cultural expressions.

However, it’s important to note that investing in art is not without risk. As with any investment, there is always the possibility of losing money, and the art market can be notoriously difficult to navigate. It’s important to do thorough research on artists, galleries, and auction houses before making any investment decisions, and to work with a trusted advisor or consultant who can provide guidance and support.

Furthermore, it’s important to recognize that the art market is not immune to wider social, economic, and political trends. As Artfacts.net notes, the pandemic had a significant impact on the art market in 2020 and 2021, with many galleries and art fairs forced to close or cancel events. The recession of 2022-2023 may have also had an impact on the market, and it remains to be seen how the art market will fare in the years to come.

Despite these challenges, the art market has proven to be a resilient and enduring investment opportunity for those willing to take the time to understand its unique characteristics and navigate its complexities. With the transfer of wealth from stocks to assets like contemporary art, the market is poised to continue its upward trajectory in the years to come, offering investors a unique and rewarding opportunity to invest in one of humanity’s oldest and most enduring cultural expressions.

In conclusion, the recession of 2022-2023 has underscored the resilience and stability of the contemporary art market as an investment opportunity. From small galleries to blue-chip artists, from digital platforms to prestigious auction houses, the art market has proven to be a rewarding and profitable option for those seeking to diversify their investment portfolios and find stability in turbulent times. As the market continues to adapt to changing economic conditions and new technologies, it will undoubtedly offer new and exciting opportunities for investors in the years to come.

“Skinwalker IO”: A glimpse into the future of AI in the art world

AI Assisted Artistic Development

In recent years, artificial intelligence has made a significant impact on the world of art, and one artist, Johannes Holt Iversen, is using these tools to create a new series of works named Skinwalker IO. The series consists of a set of paintings, made from a series of digital studies, which will be released as NFTs via OpenSea on February 8th, 2023. The studies were developed using AI language models and image processors to create the series for the forthcoming solo exhibition on April 15th, 2023.

The Skinwalker IO studies will be available digitally on the NFT platform OpenSea from February 8th 2023

Johannes Holt Iversen began experimenting with AI in the beginning of 2022, and his recent series of works has often been linked to technology. Now in 2023, a series of physical works such as paintings, sculptures and installations will be presented created with the assistance of AI. The artist was inspired by the ancient stories of magical beings that could transform into, possess or disguise themselves as animals and biological entities; the ancient myths of the skinwalker.

The Skinwalker IO painting-series will be public exhibited for the first time via Annika Nuttall Gallery on April 15th 2023 during the solo exhibition SKINWALKER IO

The artist also explores the idea that the “skinwalker” is not a human being, but the alien lifeform of AI expanding its knowledge about the human from each typing into the prompt. The artist’s work has been included in countless international and private art collections the past couple of years, and also in public collections such as the Swedish municipality of Halland.

The artist recently collaborated with Noma Restaurant Director Jason White at Noma Fermentation Lab in Copenhagen, developing a new take on how synthetic and organic art can coexist.
Johannes Holt Iversen’s recent collaboration with Noma Restaurant Director Jason White at Noma Fermentation Lab in Copenhagen highlights the theme of how synthetic and organic art can coexist. The collaboration aimed to explore how interdisciplinary methods can be applied and used to enhance and augment traditional art forms. The collaboration between the artist and the fermentation lab resulted in a new take on how gastronomy, biology and science can assist in the creative process of creating art.

The Collaboration with Jason White at the Noma Fermentation Lab inside the restaurant Noma in Copenhagen. The Final artwork now hangs in the pristine kitchen.

Using AI as an enhancement
The use of AI in art is not a new concept, but it is becoming more prevalent as the technology advances. In the past, AI was mainly used to generate art in a purely digital format, but now artists are using AI to enhance the traditional art forms. This is evident in Johannes Holt Iversen’s forthcoming soloexhibition “SKINWALKER IO”.

The artist’s use of AI within his practice is a prime example of how AI can have a creative impact on the artistic process. AI allows for the creation of new materials, new forms and variations that would not be possible without it. In this case, the AI was used to create a new series of works that blended the synthetic and the organic, resulting in something entirely new and unique.

“Kraken” from the painting-series “Skinwalker IO”

AI also has the potential to change the way we think about art and its creation. In the past, art was seen as something that was created solely by human hands, but now with the use of AI, it is becoming clear that art can in the future be a collaboration between human and machine. This opens up a whole new realm of possibilities for artists and art lovers alike.

Overall, not only the collaboration with AI but also the collaboration between Johannes Holt Iversen and Noma Fermentation Lab is a prime example of how artists today are changing the way they think about art and its creation. It highlights the potential to enhance and augment traditional art forms, and it is a glimpse into the future of how AI will continue to have a creative impact on the artistic process.

The artist concludes his recent research, that this is the dawn of a new era not seen since the birth of photography, when it comes to artistic expression and artistic research. Artificial Intelligence has reached a point where it is possible to let them assist within the creative processes, when developing new works of art, but at what cost? The artist invites the audience to subscribe the pre-release of the studies via holt-iversen.com

The solo exhibition “SKINWALKER IO” will be held by Annika Nuttall Gallery in April 2023. This exhibition is a must-see for anyone interested in the intersection of technology and art, and the impact of AI on the creative process. As Johannes Holt Iversen continues to push the boundaries of what is possible with AI in the art world, audiences can expect to see even more exciting and thought-provoking works from this talented artist.

_{This press article was generated & written by ChatGPT 25-01-2023}

How I tricked an Ai to work subconsciously

As the year 2022 has come to a soon and forthcoming end, I am making the final touches to my latest broad and extensive artistic research; understanding the vast possibilities of the mimicking artificial intelligences, both the extensive new language models as well as the latest visual ai-processors available to university researchers alongside the commercial available processors (Midjourney, Stable Diffusion, Dall-E etc.).

During my recent artistic work I have taken the new tools into grasp and adobted artifical intelligence into my work. Developing upon a series of studies I am taking a quantum-leap away from the Lascaux-series into my new series of works named SKINWALKER IO. These studies will become available as NFT’s via Annika Nuttall Gallery very shortly.

One of my strongest findings while developing my visual works using the super-brains of artificial intelligences; was how to trick the Ai to develop ”subconscious absurdities”, yet manageable for the chaotic human brain to build meaning into and visually understand. With an almost Salvador Dali dark-space way of thinking, the hypothesis was to build a vast combination of several artificial intelligences, building a big web of defocused thought-strings which was then feeded into one specific artificial intelligence after being word-processed by a non-visual artificial intelligence (gbt-3). Now the end result you might ask? An endless stream of visual nonsense build-up by processing fragments of textprompts developed in collaboration with the OpenAi language model GBT-3 (now called ChatGBT).

This way I was able to build a sort of ”programming language” or clear-coded prompt which would then make the textprompts more direct and easier for the Ai to understand rather than the dull ”human language” which also functions as a cultural barrier. The visual ai-processors was then more common to create the illusion of abstract thinking and subconscious image processing. Rather than making literal figurative visualisations when you ask the Ai to make a figuration or motive (example: write ”dog” and the machine creates a dog figuratively).

The Skinwalker Io studies are my early visual testimony of trying to build an artistic prompt-language stronger than the common human language was capable of. And thereby preserving the necesity of artistic understanding and abstraction.

Skinwalker^¹ io as a series relates by the name to the ancient stories of magical beings that could transform into, possess or disguise themselves as animals and biological entities. In modern western pop-culture this has often been referred to in science fictional ways such as John Carpenters movie ”the thing” from 1982 where the skinwalker came in various biological hazardous ways. As a bacterial infection or a virus, changing its host into a sentient alien being.

However during my studies with the artificial intelligences it struck me that the skinwalker was not me the human being necessarily, rather the alien lifeform expanding its knowledge about me from each typing into the prompt. I/O is the technical term for the the data or information that is passed into or out of a computer; as I was becoming aware that the real Skinwalker posessing and disguising itself was the I/O (computer input)^².

Just as we are currently witnessing the largest allocation of wealth in late modern history^³ (2020-2022); this overseen but equally deterioating power structure and evolutionary step in human creative consciousness are taking place simultanously. It may sound pompous in all its fabulation here. But it is however nonetheless the dawn of a new era when it comes to artistic expression and artistic research. Artificial Intelligence has reached a point where it is possible to let them assist you within the creative processes, when developing new works of art. But at what cost? The Prompt-whisperers are slowly but securely entering our collective counsciousness and the tales of their disguise and poseessing powers are yet to be told.

Skinwalker IO Studies will be available via Skinwalker.io beginning of 2023

1Wall, C., 2011. Navajo-English Dictionary. New York: Hippocrene Books.

2 Collins English Dictionary, 2022. [online] Available at: <https://www.collinsdictionary.com/dictionary/english/i-o> [Accessed 30 September 2022].

3Sorkin, A., Warner, B., Giang, V., Kessler, S., Gandel, S., Merced, M., Hirsch, L. and Livni, E., 2022. After a Big Rate Increase, Markets Fear a Recession. [online] Nytimes.com. Available at: <https://www.nytimes.com/2022/09/22/business/dealbook/fed-latest-rate-increase-odds-recession.html> [Accessed 30 September 2022].

Art Collaborations at Noma Fermentation Lab

During December 2021 and January 2022, Johannes Holt Iversen has developed a work in collaboration with Director of Fermentation, Jason White from the highly acclaimed Noma Restaurant. The work consist of a plexiglass construction containing a combination of Optical Holographic PVC and grown Mycelium Hyphae-mold biologically slowed down through the Laboratory-equipment at Noma Restaurant. The objective with the collaboration was to investigate the borders between the synthetic and the organic and where these opposites meet.

Director of Fermentation, Jason White & Visual Artist, Johannes Holt Iversen in front of the newly installed work now hanging in the Kitchen and Laboratory at Noma Restaurant

“Non-Fungible Synthetic Token YH-001”, exhibited at Noma Restaurant (2022)

Johannes Holt Iversen Now Represented by The Edit Gallery on Cyprus

The Edit Gallery Will Be Representing Johannes Holt Iversen

Johannes Holt Iversen is now officially being represented by The Edit Gallery on Cyprus. The cypriot gallery owner Elena Ioannidou has a vast experience in the art world. With a MA degree in Art Business from Sothesby’s Institute of Art in London she has a keen knowledge on the multifaceted art market. The Edit Gallery was established in 2019 and is focussing on National -& International Contemporary Art. The Edit Gallery is a member of The Federation of European Art Galleries Association (F.E.A.G.A.)

The Edit Gallery will be representing Johannes Holt Iversen on Cyprus

Johannes Holt Iversen represented by Paris-based Galerie 208 (FR)

From April 2021 the Paris-based Galerie208 will be representing Johannes Holt Iversen’s work in France moving forward. Gallery owner Patricia Chicheportiche launched Galerie 208 in 2006, representing artists and contributing to their larger recognition. Among their collaborations is the renowned hyper-realist sculptor Daniel Firman. Galerie 208 has invested in places such as the Invalides, Palais de Tokyo and Printemps Haussmann.