Nicolai Tangen, the head of Norway's Oil Fund, was recently awarded Kristiansand's culture prize for his contributions to the city's cultural landscape, particularly through the realization of the Kunstsilo project.

However, controversy has arisen as Tangen does not meet the official criteria for the award.

According to guidelines, recipients must be recognized artists born in Kristiansand or have resided there for the past decade.

While Tangen was born in the city, he is not an artist.

Despite this, his donation of a significant art collection and his role in establishing Kunstsilo have been praised for elevating Kristiansand as an international art destination.

The debate continues over whether his contributions justify the award, highlighting tensions between cultural recognition and adherence to award criteria.