“Margrethe is a person and artist of light, openness and positivity. I experience and benefit from her artwork everyday, a large framed drawing in my bedroom and also at work, as a permanent mural in a community art center that specializes in art education. Her artworks and teaching are sensitive portals that give space for personal expression.”
— Nick Kline, Creative Director, Express Newark, Founder & Director, SHINE Portrait Studio
“Margrethe is first and foremost a dedicated and multifaceted artist whose work I have loved and supported since we met well over a decade ago. Made resonant through an economy of materials and the masterful use of color, her work is intense, yet sensitive and luminous. She is also a great listener and an incisive critic, with the intellect and empathy that make her a great teacher, as well as the perfect collaborator to other artists and curators. Some of the greatest successes in my career would not have happened without Margrethe’s generosity, support, and mentorship.”
— Ian Cofre, Independent Curator
“In my capacity as curator and gallery director, I worked closely with Margrethe on a series of complex and ambitious public-facing projects. Margrethe’s highly original vision and impeccable execution skills made each experience unique and impactful. She is always open to share her deep knowledge of studio techniques and art history with the team. Her warmth and friendship supported me through the triumphs and challenges of our shared creative journey.”
— Cecilia Zhang Jalboukh
“Through my work as a curator I have had the pleasure of getting to know Margrethe Aanestad as a dedicated and profound professional visual artist. Visiting the US I have also experienced her insightful guidance through the New York City Art Scene.”
— Arnhild Sunnanå, Art Historian and Curator
“When possible I reach out to Margrethe for both - a great hangout and a chat about art. She is professional when it comes to her own work, but also has such great respect for all kinds of interesting work. Experiencing art with her sense of humor and thoughtful insights is something I would do every day!”
— Monika Wuhrer, Founder and Artistic Director, OPEN SOURCE GALLERY and KoKo NYC
“I know Margrethe as an active contributor to the field of art — an artist who has also organized and curated a project space that enriched the local art scene in Stavanger, Norway. She has taught at Kunstskolen.no in Stavanger over many years as a guest teacher and participated in our educational program in pedagogy. Margrethe contributes positively and constructively in every context in which I’ve seen her, and she has an great ability to connect with both students and colleagues. I can easily recommend her for any position or project she chooses to pursue — she makes it happen! ”
— John Øivind Eggesbø, Principal at Stavanger School of Art
“I have worked with Margrethe to present her work, as well as to offer adult art workshops at Scandinavia House. She is incredibly thoughtful, welcoming, and personable with her students. Her vast and deep knowledge of materials, and enthusiasm for all kinds of art making, is inspiring. Her students were thrilled and asked for more classes! It is always a joy to see Margrethe, see art together, and work together. She is a treasure.”
— Emily Stoddart, Manager of Exhibitions and Community Programs, Scandinavia House, New York