Wrap is a project synonymous with the address at Møllendalsveien 58 in Bergen, where it is has been based since 2009 (previously Ibsensgate 31 between 2003 - 2009). The project is developed and run by the artist/curator duo, History Disposal Unit, on freelance terms. It is dedicated to improving and nurturing the conditions for independent interdisciplinary art production and dissemination in Bergen and the region of Vestlandet (Norway). The project currently does this through provision of the following services:
• Flexible project spaces.
• Specialist workshops and studios with industry standard tools and equipment.
• Carefully formulated, inclusive platforms presenting a varied program targeting broad audiences.
• Technical advice and assistance.
Production spaces and tools are provided on a project (non-permanent) basis at subsidised rates that reflect Wrap’s underlying principles of inclusivity and accessibility. No artist or group of artists has prioritised access to a particular space or equipment. All the facilities at Wrap can be made available to anyone with a relevant background who needs them.
As a project dedicated to independent artists, Wrap is entirely staffed by freelancers, enabling artists, producers and technicians to supplement their income while contributing to an inspiring and supportive community.
A balance between autonomy and community
Wrap places an emphasis on the autonomy of individual productions and artists. There is no membership, no restrictions on working times and no requirement to share work or credit Wrap in any way unless that is specifically appropriate.
Although autonomy is important to all artists on some level, the importance of collaboration, knowledge sharing and community is profound. History Disposal Unit takes full advantage of Wrap’s position as a regional hub at the centre of many interdisciplinary collaborations and a far-reaching network, to design and implement projects that focus on the development of an inspiring community and cross-pollination of ideas. Large-scale collaborative projects with an emphasis on co-authorship/assemblage spanning multiple phases, such as Kunstikit (2011-2012) and Speaker Park (2019 - present day) highlight the thoroughness and attention to detail that is characteristic of this duo’s work. Recurring projects such as Sonisk Selskap and Audioglimt challenge artists from different disciplines and backgrounds to work together through improvisation and/or scores, within a set framework. These frameworks provide a context that is both inspiring for artists and relevant for audiences. The results can be experienced as live events and as video publications online.
Flexible arena for sharing art with audiences
Wrap is also a natural choice of arena for some artists to show their work. History Disposal Unit has developed conceptual frameworks that address this interest, seeking to provide the best solutions both for artists and audiences. Plastic Arena is a framework that empowers artists to present work on optimal terms with maximum control over the setting. Wrap offers these artists thorough technical and organisational support, as well as other optional advice, drawing on our extensive expertise. Søndagskrydder is a series of eclectic Sunday matiné events that bring together food, talks, music, visual and performing arts, providing an established setting where artists can show their work without the need for long term planing.
Knowledge hub
Wrap’s success is in large part due to the high level of technical and organisational/administrative expertise within History Disposal Unit. Wrap began a technical internship/trainee program in 2020, and hopes to expand this to a wider reaching incubator program, collaborating extensively with other institutions.
As a project without fixed employees, Wrap is committed to providing opportunities for artists, technicians and other workers within the art field, and to sharing knowledge and developing connections within this workforce.
Inclusive and diverse
Wrap was inspired and informed by the early experiences of Leo Preston and Veronica Thorseth (History Disposal Unit) who both have a background in the performing arts. As such the project has a clear bond with theatre and dance in many forms. However, artists from other fields such as music and visual art also depend on the unique opportunities that Wrap provides for working on a large scale. Embracing diversity and artists from different genres and disciplines is an important part of Wrap’s ethos.
Last updated 01.04.2022
work-in-progress
Leo Preston
