Pushwagner (1940-2018), an important contemporary artist currently experiencing both national and international success, have gained a surge of wide international recognition in the past years. He was awarded at the XIIth Vilnius Painting Triennial 2004 for the continued tradition of expressionism in the new context.

Pushwagner was also named a highlight at the 5th berlin biennial for contemporary art 2008 and the 16th Biennale of Sydney 2008.
Pushwagner was awarded the prize for the best contribution at the annual Norwegian State Exhibition 2008.