A Strengthened Artistic Community: OCA Moves to Kunstnernes Hus

OCA – Office for Contemporary Art Norway and Kunstnernes Hus are pleased to announce that OCA will be relocating to Kunstnernes Hus. OCA has signed a long-term lease, and the organisations will co-locate in the autumn of 2026.

“We’re excited about the opportunities this collaboration will bring to strengthen both institutions," says Ruben Steinum, Director of OCA, and Sarah Lookofsky, Director of Kunstnernes Hus.

OCA and Kunstnernes Hus share the goal of fostering connections between the Norwegian art scenes and international art communities. The co-location will strengthen and further develop Kunstnernes Hus as a central venue for the arts, integrating art exhibitions, artistic production, discursive and professional programmes, and international networks.

OCA – Closer to Artists and the Art Field

OCA’s main mission is to promote contemporary art from Norway internationally. In its new premises at Kunstnernes Hus, the organisation will be more closely connected to the artists and the wider art community it serves.

"OCA will be more accessible from our new premises at Kunstnernes Hus. For me, Kunstnernes Hus represents the multifaceted artistic communities across Norway, and I look forward to expanding international opportunities from here," says Ruben Steinum.

Studios – Developing New Opportunities for Artists

"There is a long tradition of hosting artist studios at Kunstnernes Hus, and we look forward to continuing this tradition and developing new offerings that strengthen opportunities beyond Norway," says Ruben Steinum.

The new premises are better suited to OCA’s needs and ambitions, reflecting the organisation’s work in creating lasting structures that will continue to ensure a central role for art in society.

New Strategy – Launching September 2025

OCA will take a long-term approach, looking ahead to develop and generate international activity in collaboration with the art field. Relocating to Kunstnernes Hus marks the first decisive step in OCA’s new strategic plan, which will be launched in September 2025.

"OCA aims to spark interest, create opportunities, and contribute to the realisation of artistic activity internationally. We also aim to strengthen the position of art in society, safeguard artistic freedom, and actively participate in shaping the future we want to live in," says Ruben Steinum.

Kunstnernes Hus – Renovation

OCA’s new establishment at Kunstnernes Hus coincides with a significant and much-needed renovation of the building, offering a unique opportunity to be part of the development of a vibrant and unifying centre for art for future generations. OCA’s premises will be located at the rear of the building, where a new elevator will ensure universal accessibility.

"OCA has been an important platform for connecting the Norwegian art scene to broader global discourses and trends, as well as fostering collegial contact across borders. The lease also strengthens and provides long-term predictability for our finances," says Sarah Lookofsky. "OCA has previously been located at Kunstnernes Hus. By expanding activities at the House, already a gathering point between the field and a wider public, I am convinced that various synergies – both expected and unexpected – will emerge."

For more information, please contact:
Kari Ane Golf 
Kommunikasjonsleder OCA 
+ 47 986 19 241 
kari.ane.golf@oca.no