Art as identity, environment and culture

SEB has renewed its partnership with Market Art Fair for a further three years. A continuation of a long-term commitment to Nordic contemporary art and to the dialogue between culture and entrepreneurship.

Art has been part of SEB’s identity for many years. When the headquarters moved to Arenastaden in Solna in 2017, the relocation became an opportunity to rethink the workplace. Not just as an office, but as an environment for inspiration and dialogue. Since then, a substantial contemporary art collection has taken shape, with works by more than 65 Nordic artists, many created specifically for the site.

Within SEB, art plays multiple roles. It shifts offices from purely functional spaces into places that invite creativity and exchange. It also reflects a wider ambition: to support Nordic artists and give visibility to emerging voices. The collection has received broad attention and guided art tours are now a natural part of life in the building.

“Market Art Fair was founded to highlight the strength and diversity of the Nordic contemporary art scene. Partnerships with long-term, value-driven organisations like SEB are essential in creating the conditions for artists and galleries to thrive,” says Sara Berner Bengtsson, CEO of Market Art Fair.

A continued commitment

Recognising the shared values between art and entrepreneurship – vision, passion and perseverance – SEB took a further step in 2023 by becoming a lead partner of Market Art Fair, the leading Nordic fair for contemporary art.

Through the partnership, SEB has expanded its engagement beyond collecting, offering clients access to art-world expertise, networks and insight. The collaboration also creates natural meeting places for clients who share a genuine interest in art.

“Art challenges perspective, rewards curiosity and demands long-term thinking. We recognise these qualities from entrepreneurship and from how we work with our clients. Our renewed partnership with Market Art Fair reflects a belief that art has a meaningful role to play not only culturally, but also in how we create relevance, connection and value over time,” says Anders Engstrand, Head of SEB Private Wealth Management & Family Office.

The renewed partnership enables continued support for Nordic artists, curated exhibitions and art experiences for clients, as well as opportunities for those who wish to explore art as an alternative investment.