About Us

Wilstar started as a non-profit venture focused on social impact and supporting people who initiate sustainable lasting change to create a better world. 

Today, Wilstar consists of two seperate investment platforms both inspired by the core values that have defined the Wilhelmsen’s legacy including innovation, free enterprise, self-reliance and an entrepreneurial spirit.

Our History

Wilstar started as the nonprofit social impact arm of the Arne and Lise Wilhelmsen family office and has developed into a space in which the Wilhelmsen family feel they can most effectively contribute to our society. Awilhelmsen is an investment company located in Oslo, Norway, established in 1939 with an approach rooted in generational thinking.

A flexible mandate and long-term perspective provide a distinct competitive edge, enabling the group to invest across a wide spectrum of industries. The Awilhelmsen company is owned by the Arne Wilhelmsen family.

It is Wilstar’s vision to support

  • Empowerment - Strengthen our communities for a more sustainable future

  • Education and Economic Equality - Lay the foundations for a more inclusive society

  • Action on Climate Change - Leave our environment and the planet in a better condition for future generations

Our Commitment to Art and Social Impact

Art has long held a central place in the Wilhelmsen family's values - both as a form of cultural expression and as a catalyst for social change. Across generations, the Wilhelmsen family have sought to support artists whose work not only moves audiences but also addresses urgent issues in society.

This commitment is reflected in two art awards established to empower emerging artists with a social mission: the Lise Wilhelmsen Art Award Programme in Norway and the Linstow Art Award in Latvia. Both initiatives aim to recognise artistic excellence while amplifying the role of art in shaping more inclusive and resilient communities.

Lise Wilhelmsen Art Award Programme

The Lise Wilhelmsen Art Award Programme (LWAAP) was established to honour mid-career artists whose work engages with social, cultural, or political questions of our time. Presented in collaboration with Henie Onstad Kunstsenter, the award includes a financial grant, an exhibition, and acquisition of the artist's work into the institution's permanent collection.

The Linstow Art Award

The Linstow Art Award supports young and emerging Latvian artists whose work contributes to dialogue and development within contemporary society. The award includes financial support and the opportunity to exhibit work publicly, helping to elevate local voices with global relevance.

Who We Are

The Board

Paulina Rider Wilhelmsen

Founder / Board Member

Francesca Wilhelmsen

Co-Founder / Board Member

Solveig A. Wilhelmsen

Co-Founder / Board Member

Agnes Wilhelmsen

Emily Rider Wilhelmsen

Board Member

Programme Manager / Board Member

Carl Oscar Wilhelmsen

Board Member

Astrid Sørgaard

Board Chair

Staff

Marcus Bleasdale

Managing Director

Hanne Mork Gentzel

Investment Director

Jean-Guillaume Marquaire

Investment Director