How Julie Leopold Is Making Copenhagen the World’s Next Art Capital

In 2019, driven by a desire to bridge the gap between emerging and established artists, Julie Leopold, now the Founder and CEO of Enter Art Fair, envisioned a new kind of art fair with the goal of uniting the Danish community with international galleries, collectors, and artists from around the world. Leopold’s journey into the arts has been driven by both passion and professional ambition.

Our Scandinavian approach, inviting everyone to ‘enter’ the art world, resonates with an international audience

Julie Leopold

Captivated by how art can communicate complex ideas, she naturally gravitated towards a career that allowed deeper exploration. “My journey into the arts has been both a personal passion and a professional adventure,” Leopold explains. “I’ve always been fascinated by how art can communicate complex ideas and emotions, so naturally, I pursued a career that allowed me to explore that more deeply.”

Enter isn’t Leopold’s first rodeo either; she has organized lifestyle fairs for eighteen years, developing a deep passion for the arts industry along the way. Inspired by celebrated art fairs like Basel and Frieze, Leopold set her sights on making Copenhagen the world’s next art capital.

Convinced that Copenhagen was the ideal location to bring this vision to life, Leopold founded Enter Art Fair, fueled by her ambition to create an annual event that would attract a global art community to Denmark and establish Copenhagen as a must-visit destination for art. Today, hosting over 96 galleries from more than 20 countries, Enter Art Fair welcomes over 20,000 visitors to the 10,000 m² Lokomotivværkstedet, one of Copenhagen’s most dynamic event spaces.

This year, Enter made an addition to its regular programming with a new Digital Section, spotlighting the intersection of technology and creativity. Led by Diana Velasco, Head of the Art Program and Digital Selection Committee, the section was seamlessly integrated alongside its fireside talks, performances, and conversations, demonstrating Enter’s vision to be at the forefront of art and technology.

Denmark’s capital has a rich cultural heritage that reflects its historical evolution. From the Danish Golden Age of painting in the 19th century to modern and contemporary movements, Danish art has been shaped by a mix of influences, from the monarchy to the rise of nationalism and social movements. Artists such as Anna Ancher, closely associated with the Skagen Painters group; body and performance artist Kirsten Justesen; and contemporary artist Olafur Eliasson, to name a few, have all made influential contributions, leaving their distinct marks on its themes and aesthetics.

Home to cultural institutions such as The National Gallery of Denmark (SMK), Copenhagen Contemporary, and Charlottenborg, Copenhagen has also been a melting pot of Nordic and European influences, making it distinctly Danish and internationally connected. Enter Art Fair not only showcases contemporary talent, but it also connects the world to the country’s creative legacy.

Shortly after the 2024 edition of Enter Art Fair, we had the opportunity to speak with Leopold to delve deeper into her vision, the fair’s impact, and its role in shaping Copenhagen’s burgeoning art scene.

Hi Julie, thanks for speaking with us. Could you please share a little bit about your background and journey into the arts, especially during the early days of Enter Art Fair?

Julie Leopold: My journey into the arts has been both a personal passion and a professional adventure. I’ve always been fascinated by how art can communicate complex ideas and emotions, so naturally, I gravitated towards a career that allowed me to explore that more deeply. Having organized lifestyle fairs for eighteen years and developed a passion for the arts industry, I was inspired by renowned international art fairs like Art Basel and Frieze.

In the early days of Enter Art Fair, I was driven by a desire to create a platform that could bridge the gap between emerging and established artists, as well as between the traditional art world and new, innovative voices. We wanted to challenge the conventional formats of art fairs by integrating both physical and digital experiences. This was during a time when the art world was rapidly changing, with technology playing a bigger role in how art is created, viewed, and sold. We saw an opportunity to create something dynamic and inclusive, which could resonate with a broader audience.

The first few years were challenging but incredibly rewarding. We were carving out a new space in a competitive industry, but the positive response from artists, galleries, and collectors confirmed that we were on the right path. It’s been an exciting journey, and I’m proud of how Enter Art Fair has evolved into a respected event that fosters creativity and innovation. It’s become a must-visit destination on the international arts calendar.

In 2019, you established Enter Art Fair with the mission to create a creative and commercial nexus for the global arts industry in Copenhagen. What were some of the key challenges you faced in the early stages of building the fair, and how did your previous experiences with events like Code Art Fair and BogForuminfluence your approach to overcoming these challenges?

Julie Leopold: Establishing Enter Art Fair in 2019 was both an exciting and daunting task. Our mission was to create a dynamic platform that would serve as a creative and commercial nexus for the global arts industry in Copenhagen, but like any ambitious project, it came with its own set of challenges.

One of the key challenges in the early stages was gaining the trust and buy-in from both local and international galleries and artists. We were introducing a new concept in a market that already had established art fairs, so convincing stakeholders to take a chance on something new required a lot of persistence and a clear vision. We had to communicate effectively why Enter Art Fair was different—how it would integrate digital experiences, offer innovative exhibition formats, and create opportunities for emerging artists alongside established names.

Another significant challenge was ensuring that the fair would resonate not just locally, but on a global scale. Copenhagen has a vibrant art scene, but we needed to position the fair as an event of international relevance. This required strategic partnerships, a strong marketing campaign, and a deep understanding of both the local culture and the global art market.

My previous experiences with Code Art Fair and BogForum were invaluable in navigating these challenges. At Code Art Fair, I learned the importance of curating a unique and high-quality selection of galleries and artists, which helped me shape the identity of Enter Art Fair. The experience also taught me about the logistical and operational aspects of running an art fair, from venue selection to managing relationships with exhibitors and visitors.

BogForum, on the other hand, gave me insights into organizing large-scale cultural events with a broad public appeal. It reinforced the importance of accessibility and inclusivity, which I made sure to incorporate into Enter Art Fair’s ethos. Both experiences highlighted the importance of adaptability and innovation, especially in the face of challenges, and these lessons were crucial as we built Enter Art Fair from the ground up.

In the end, it was about combining these experiences with a strong vision and the ability to respond to the evolving needs of the art community. The challenges were significant, but they ultimately made Enter Art Fair a more resilient and forward-thinking event.

Enter Art Fair has quickly gained recognition on the global arts calendar as a progressive space for artistic expression and a catalyst for the international arts industry. Can you elaborate on your vision for the fair in the coming years? How do you plan to maintain this momentum and further enhance the fair’s impact on the global art scene?

Julie Leopold: Enter Art Fair has indeed grown rapidly, and I’m incredibly proud of the recognition we’ve received on the global arts calendar. However, this is just the beginning of what I envision for the fair. Looking ahead, my vision for Enter Art Fair is to continue evolving as a progressive space that not only showcases artistic expression but also fosters meaningful connections within the global art community. We aim to push boundaries, both in terms of the art we present and the experiences we offer to our visitors. With Enter Art Fair at its core, we’ve launched ‘4 Days of Art’ to enhance Copenhagen’s status as a major arts hub and encourage visitors to discover the city’s vibrant design, fashion, and gastronomy scenes.

Choosing to locate the fair in the heart of Copenhagen has been crucial. It reflects the city’s vibrant creative energy and contributes to its urban development, enhancing both local and international tourism. Despite our significant growth, our mission remains the same: to be a creative and commercial hub for the Danish, Scandinavian, and global art communities.

Enter Art Fair is known for supporting new technology within the art industry. How do you see the intersection of art and technology evolving in the future? Are there any specific technological innovations that you believe will significantly impact how art is created, displayed, or consumed in the coming years?

Julie Leopold: We chose the name ‘ENTER’ to invite everyone into the art world, encouraging exploration and acquisition of artworks. The also nods to the ‘ENTER’ key, symbolizing our dedication to integrating digital innovation with the traditional art scene.

This year, we’re excited to unveil a dedicated section for galleries specializing in digital art, along with an Art Program that highlights the digital medium. I encourage everyone to visit to explore the convergence of technology and creativity, showcasing digital artworks that are redefining contemporary art. Curated by Diana Velasco, the Art Program ‘Betwixt – Analogue and Digital Realms’ will showcase a diverse lineup of talks, performances, and artworks exploring AI, NFTs, and digital interventions. The program investigates the “phygital” concept by blending physical and digital experiences. Notable highlights include the interactive webcam piece “Heartsleeves” by LoVid (US) and “Human Unreadable” by the artist duo Operate (US), featuring generative digital patterns and algorithmic choreography.

Additionally, a unique performance created specifically for Enter Art Fair will be presented by a French multimodal artist group, including dancer and choreographer Natacha Paguignon, dancer Kynsie Serre, AR producer Maxime Touroute, musician Odalie, and four Augmented Reality dancers. This performance, held twice daily, invites audiences to use a free app to experience the convergence of physical and digital art at four specific locations within the fair. The Talk Program will delve into emerging digital trends and museum initiatives, with speakers such as Web3 Associate Madeleine Pierpont from MOMA and Director Sabine Himmelsbach from the House of Electronic Arts.

You are a strong advocate for investing in art. In your view, what makes art a valuable investment in today’s world? How do you advise new collectors to approach building their art collections, particularly in a market that is increasingly influenced by global trends and digital platforms?

Julie Leopold: I’m proud that Danish, Scandinavian, and international art lovers return to Enter Art Fair every year. We welcome everyone, from well-established collectors and institutions to first-time buyers. There’s something for everyone to experience and acquire. As Scandinavia’s largest international fair, we have a responsibility towards our partners, visitors and the entire art industry. At Enter Art Fair, staying relevant and engaged with global trends is integral to our identity. The wide-ranging selection and exceptional quality of our galleries and artworks reflect our commitment to appealing to our visitors.

Our committee meticulously curates galleries according to international standards, ensuring both high quality and diverse representation across various disciplines, including painting, sculpture, ceramics, glass, NFTs, and video. Every aspect of our fair is designed to enhance the visitor experience and foster or strengthen connections between the art industry and art enthusiasts.

Enter Art Fair has played a significant role in promoting the Danish and Scandinavian art scene internationally. What do you think are the unique characteristics of this region’s art scene that resonate with global audiences? How do you work to showcase and elevate these qualities at Enter Art Fair?

Julie Leopold: A key aspect of our strategy is our dedication to forging our own path rather than simply adhering to conventional art fair practices. From the outset, I’ve prioritized selecting the ideal venue to create a vibrant atmosphere for both exhibitors and visitors. We continually focus on ensuring that the layout and environment are functional, welcoming, and engaging.

Our Scandinavian approach, inviting everyone to ‘enter’ the art world, resonates with an international audience. Each year, galleries, artists, collectors, and art enthusiasts return to the fair to network, gain inspiration, and invest in art. I’m fortunate to work with an exceptional team that constantly drives innovation and encourages new directions. Staying curious, keeping abreast of the latest trends, and adapting to societal changes are essential to our ongoing success.

One of the key aspects of Enter Art Fair is its ability to balance commercial success with creative expression. How do you ensure that the fair remains a space where both established and emerging artists can thrive without compromising artistic integrity for commercial gain?

Julie Leopold: Balancing commercial success with creative expression is indeed a key aspect of Enter Art Fair. We achieve this balance through several strategic approaches to ensure that Enter Art Fair remains a dynamic platform where both established and emerging artists can thrive, while upholding the values of artistic integrity and innovation.

A central initiative of ours is the Art Program, which is open to the public at no charge. From the start, it has been designed to challenge the traditional concept of a static art fair by incorporating performances and live events that interact with the space in innovative ways. For instance, last year, artist Mira Winding navigated the fair with a shopping cart, while US-born artist Nikima Jagudejav performed a dynamic hybrid dance throughout the four days.

Can we discuss your personal collection, which includes sculptures, ceramics, and paintings?

Julie Leopold: I’m an art lover, and my personal collection includes everything from paintings, NFT’s to sculptures. Every year I fall in love with a new artwork at Enter Art Fair, and I cannot wait to see what the galleries will showcase. I’m sure I will bring home one or two new artworks to cherish.

Could you share more about the themes or artists that particularly resonate with you? How does your personal taste in art influence the curation and direction of Enter Art Fair?

Julie Leopold: Enter Art Fair serves as a dynamic hub for both creative and commercial exchange, celebrated for its innovative approach and commitment to excellence. We work with industry leaders who are dedicated to making a meaningful impact in the global art world. Our Curatorial Committee meticulously selects galleries according to international standards, ensuring a diverse and high-quality representation across various disciplines such as painting, sculpture, ceramics, glass, NFTs, and video.

The process of reviewing applications is both exhilarating and demanding. We strive to capture the current zeitgeist, and the galleries we accept must align with this vision and meet our rigorous quality standards. We invest considerable time in evaluating new galleries to determine their fit with our fair and their potential for success. Our goal is to enhance the visitor experience and strengthen the connection between the art industry and art enthusiasts, ensuring the success of both galleries and their artists.

Building on that, can we talk about the cultural impact of Enter Art Fair? With the fair attracting over 20,000 visitors annually and doubling in size within just six years, what cultural impact do you believe it has had on Copenhagen and the broader Scandinavian region? How do you see this impact evolving as the fair continues to grow?

Julie Leopold: In 2019, I saw the opportunity to create an art fair that united Danish and international galleries with collectors, institutions, foundations, and artists from across the globe. I was convinced that Copenhagen was the perfect city to bring this vision to life. Our fair began in a 3,000 m² tent on Refshaleøen, featuring 35 international galleries and attracting 6,000 visitors. Today, we host over 96 galleries from more than 20 countries and welcome over 20,000 visitors to the 10,000 m² Lokomotivværkstedet, one of Copenhagen’s most vibrant event spaces. This significant growth underscores our success in creating a dynamic and engaging environment. My vision was to establish Copenhagen as a global art destination, creating an annual event that would attract the international art community to Denmark. I’m therefore excited that we have launched ‘4 Days of Art’ to further this vision.

I’m also proud to see how the danish and international galleries grow. The gallery Von Bartha exemplifies how Enter Art Fair serves as a gateway to the Scandinavian art market. After participating in the fair in 2019, the gallery established a new location in Carlsberg Byen, one of Copenhagen’s most vibrant districts known for its creativity and urban regeneration. This gallery has since become a significant attraction and contributes to the area’s revitalization. Additionally, von Bartha represents Danish artist Ursula Reuter Christiansen, who will have a solo exhibition at Arken Museum in August. Since 1972, von Bartha has been a fixture at Art Basel and, in 2023, dedicated their participation and two solo exhibitions in Basel and Copenhagen to Christiansen.

As a female leader in the arts industry, how do you perceive the role of women in shaping the future of this field? Have you faced any specific challenges in your career related to gender, and how do you address them within your organization and the wider arts community?

Julie Leopold: I believe that all genders play a crucial role in shaping the future. We all bring diverse perspectives, innovative ideas, and a unique approach to leadership and creativity, which are essential for the evolution and enrichment of the arts. Diversity is vital in breaking new ground, advocating for inclusivity, and fostering a more equitable industry. Within my organization, I prioritize creating an inclusive and supportive environment where all voices are heard and valued. By championing these efforts, we can work towards a more inclusive and dynamic arts industry where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

Regarding the future of Enter Art Fair post-pandemic, the global pandemic has significantly impacted the arts industry. How has Enter Art Fair adapted to the challenges posed by the pandemic, and what lasting changes do you foresee for art fairs and exhibitions in a post-pandemic world?

Julie Leopold: Launching a completely new art fair in under six months in 2019 was a challenge. The following year, the pandemic brought additional obstacles with its restrictions. Our success in overcoming these difficulties was largely due to our adaptability as a young and dynamic fair, constantly seeking innovative solutions and approaches. Each challenge became an opportunity to refine our strategy and ensure we continued to evolve rather than stagnate. At Enter Art Fair, we’re committed to embracing the changes in society and continue to innovate to meet the evolving needs of the art world. We keep working with the industry’s key players, and together forge a meaningful path for the international art world.

Are there any up-and-coming artists that we should definitely have on our radar?

Julie Leopold: There are so many to mention. I highly encourage you to stay updated on our Instagram and signing up to our Newsletter. Here we share lots of insights, behind-the-scenes and much more throughout the year. During the fair, I also encourage you to check out our Sculpture Garden and the Young Gallery Section which always includes surprising artworks by some incredible artists.

Lastly, could you share the guiding philosophy for your career and your understanding of the core importance of art in your life and career?

Julie Leopold: My guiding philosophy centers on the belief that art has the power to connect, inspire, and transform both individuals and communities. Throughout my career, I have focused on creating platforms that bring together diverse voices and perspectives, fostering dialogue and understanding through artistic expression and commercial exchanges.

©2024 Julie Leopold