Why Art?
– A Film Exploring the Importance of Public Art
The “Why Art?” film project is rooted in the urban renewal strategy for Bispebjerg Bakke, part of the Copenhagen Municipality’s regeneration efforts from 2022 to 2026. This initiative aims to transform Bispebjerg Bakke into a diverse, green, and attractive neighborhood with strong community bonds, vibrant institutions, and an ideal environment for children and youth. The vision is to create a place where residents choose to stay, with development that honors the area’s history, architectural quality, and everyday life.
And of course the art, the art of life!
Creative Direction | Concept Development | Production
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Public spaces hold unique significance
—they are where we all meet as equals, regardless of background, age, or status. Art in public spaces plays a crucial role in this dynamic, offering spontaneous encounters with creativity as people go about their daily lives. Recognizing the importance of art in shaping a vibrant community, the project prioritized integrating art into the renewal efforts.
To achieve this, the Art Patrol (Kunstpatruljen) working group was established, focusing on both uncovering hidden existing artworks throughout Bispebjerg Bakke and introducing new artistic expressions to the area. By embedding art within the public realm, the project seeks to strengthen the community’s identity, enhance the quality of life, and contribute to the ongoing development of Bispebjerg Bakke as a neighborhood that balances progress with its rich heritage.
”In connection with the development of an art strategy for Bispebjerg Bakke in Copenhagen, Kasper Christiansen contributed a film that both documents the inclusive process and highlights the role of art in public spaces.
The result is a meticulously crafted production that beautifully balances the communication of factual information about the process with the poetic potential of art. Kasper's ability to translate complex material into a film with broad audience appeal is of great value not only for promoting the specific art strategy but also for fostering public dialogue about the potential of art in general.
Lotte Boesen ToftgaardCurator and Art Advisor
Consultant for the Danish Arts Foundation's Art in Public Buildings Program.
”I had the great pleasure of collaborating with Kasper on the production of the film Why Art/Hvorfor Kunst.
Kasper is highly receptive to ideas and requests, a pleasure to work with, and has a keen ability to analyze and understand how to bring visions to life on film. He also added his own creative touch to the film, making it even better than I had imagined.
Additionally, the film is beautifully produced, and the choice of music perfectly complements the film's theme.
Mille HolmSenior Consultant, Urban Renewal Bispebjerg Bakke,
Copenhagen Municipality
The film explores multiple non-verbal layers, offering insights into art as a tool for deeper self-understanding and one’s place in the world. By subtly flipping familiar experiences and shifting everyday perspectives, the narrative leads us through profound and intimate insights from local residents. The artist duo Hesselholdt & Mejlvang conveys these messages, culminating in a powerful final performance that ties everything together.
Thanks to:
Mille Holm, Special Consultant, Områdefornyelsen Bispebjerg Bakke.
Lotte Boesen Toftgaard, Curator and Art Advisor, Umage.
Cast:
Sofie Hesselholdt, Vibeke Mejlvang, Lotte Boesen Toftgaard, Niels Frid-Nielsen, Jonna Daldorph Nielsen, Estrid Haulrich, Kim Stig Andersen.
Supported by Statens Kunstfond (The Danish Arts Foundation)
Produced for Københavns Kommune (Copenhagens municipality)
