This is the story of two friends, their shared passion for art, and how their journey from a nomadic pop-up gallery to a permanent space in London’s bustling Fitzrovia neighborhood is a testament to their unwavering dedication to showcasing young and emerging artists.
Lovisa Berntson Vit and India Bhattacharjee, two Swedish art enthusiasts, were destined to collaborate. They had been moving in the same circles for years, but it wasn’t until 2019 that their paths truly converged. Vit was pursuing her MFA at Sotheby’s, while Bhattacharjee was working at The Cultivist, a private members club. Their shared passion for art ignited a strong bond, leading them to become each other’s trusted advisors in the art world.
In 2020, seizing an opportunity, the duo, who had settled in London, embarked on an ambitious project. They decided to organize an exhibition in Skänor, a coastal town in Southern Sweden. With the help of eleven artists, they packed their car and set off on this unconventional journey. What began as an experiment soon blossomed into a life-altering project.
From Pop-up to Permanent: A Vision Takes Shape
The gallerists’ commitment to their artists is evident in their approach to curating exhibitions that act as significant milestones in the artists’ careers.
Fast forward four years, and Berntson Bhattacharjee is celebrating its first anniversary in a spacious 2,200 square foot permanent location on Berners Street in London’s Fitzrovia neighborhood. The gallery, which has evolved from its nomadic origins, has quickly gained recognition for its unique program featuring young, dynamic artists.
The gallery’s inaugural solo show, “Staying Sane,” featured works from artists like Mary Stephenson and Katy Stubbs. Held in Stockholm in the wake of the 2020 pandemic, it was a daring leap of faith that paid off handsomely. The exhibition not only showcased the gallerists’ talent for presenting emerging artists but also demonstrated their ability to engage audiences enthusiastically. This success fueled their determination to continue staging exhibitions, leading to a series of shows over three years in diverse locations.
A Permanent Home, A Dedicated Vision
Berntson Bhattacharjee’s permanent location in Fitzrovia serves as a testament to the gallery’s commitment to its artists and its desire to create a vibrant hub for art enthusiasts in the heart of London.
The gallery’s dedication to its artists is evident in their choice of space. Berntson Bhattacharjee occupies a repurposed garage, providing an expansive canvas for transformative art installations. The space has been redesigned to evoke the atmosphere of a theater, with fabric drapes creating a curtain-like effect around the walls.
This choice of space also reflects the gallerists’ entrepreneurial spirit. Their nomadic beginnings instilled in them a willingness to take risks. The success of their early ventures fueled their ambition to establish a permanent location.
A Strong Foundation, A Bright Future
Berntson Bhattacharjee is poised for continued success, driven by a deep commitment to their artists’ growth and a belief in the power of art to connect with audiences.
The gallery’s journey has been marked by significant milestones. Their first permanent exhibition, a solo show featuring new works by Gen Z artist Georg Wilson, marked a new chapter for both the artist and the gallery. This exhibition showcased Wilson’s mystical, folkloric approach to her figures and lush landscapes.
Berntson Bhattacharjee’s dedication to its artists is evident in its mission to foster their careers, both in London and internationally. The gallery’s permanent location provides a stable platform for building relationships with collectors and fostering the artists’ growth.
Fitzrovia: A Hub for Art Enthusiasts
The gallery’s choice of Fitzrovia as its permanent location reflects their commitment to establishing a vibrant art hub in a neighborhood known for its artistic energy.
The gallery’s choice of Fitzrovia was driven by its desire to be close to its audience. During their nomadic days, the gallerists honed their ability to select locations that offered visibility for their artists. Fitzrovia, with its vibrant art scene, seemed like the perfect fit.
A Vision for Growth: Looking Ahead
Berntson Bhattacharjee’s future is bright, filled with exciting projects that celebrate the gallery’s commitment to fostering the careers of emerging artists.
The gallery’s first year has been a resounding success, and Vit and Bhattacharjee are determined to continue growing. Their commitment to supporting their artists’ growth is evident in their upcoming projects, including a solo presentation of 29-year-old artist Jessie Stevenson at Stockholm’s Market Art Fair and a group exhibition, “Smörgårdsbord,” featuring six prominent Nordic artists.
The gallery’s permanent home in Fitzrovia provides a solid foundation for continued growth. With a vibrant art scene, a dedicated team, and a passion for showcasing emerging talent, Berntson Bhattacharjee is poised to become a leading force in London’s art world.
