Normally I think of July as one of the best months in the year with its summer holidays and slow living with family and friends. I for sure had been looking so much forward to hot summer days, lazy breakfasts with my cat, wonderful lunchbaskets and swimming in the nearby lake, hiking, bicycling, roaming the woods with my husband and spending warm evenings in my hammock reading interesting books after nice dinners with a glass of greek Retsina.
Sweet summer days
Forrest studio
This month I had made plans for bringing my large new paintings outside in the local woods in order to contemplate and try to bring in the energy from the old trees before the final stages in my pop-up forest studio. Also I was planning to bring my sketchbooks and some tools when revisiting some of my favourite secret places far far away. And I was supposed to prepare for an upcoming exhibition.
sketchbooks
When life gives you lemons
Well, let’s say things turned out differently as Corona hit the house pretty bad. I hardly remember anything from the first 5 days of high fever and only bits and pieces from the next few weeks. All my energy was gone, my brain was more or less shut down and I slept 14-16 hours a day.
As you might have guessed, all my plans went down the drain. No painting, no recharging, no fun, no nothing. My husband and I could barely let the cat out.
They say: When life gives you a sour situation, make something good out of it, sweeten it up! This time I had no other choice but to surrender. I couldn’t beat that stubborn Covid-monster inside my body.
Some days are better than others! I’m so honoured! Thank you curator Cat Salter-Smith for choosing my painting “Portrait of Paul” as one of your Top 5 favourite paintings among the almost 1000 artworks in this year’s international TAE exhibition in York, UK.
Gala opening event in the Hiscox building on the Saturday 25th june. What a wonderful surprise! Online sale from june 29.
Portrait of Paul
Curators choice
This is what the curator said:
“Yes, it’s a portrait of a person called Paul, but this artwork is so much more than that! Absolutely love the use of colour and pattern which has turned this ‘portrait’ into a fabulous abstract piece. Would be great to meet Paul one day! He really looks like a fun guy!”
The model, Paul, who is an artist himself was thrilled as he received the good news.
Makes me really happy to know that this special artwork now belongs to a dedicated collector in sunny California, USA.
Aiming for 10 years straight
This is my 6th year of participating in TAE and I plan to keep it up for at least 4 more! Two years ago my entry made the front page among several others and this year my entry gets highlighted as one of the Top 5. So much fun!
Making big life decisions doesn’t necessarily come easy. Every new year I make time to reflect about the previous year: Did things turn out as expected, or do I need to change my priorities?
In today’s blog I will reflect upon making a U-turn, in order to turn my life around to align with my changing hopes and desires, with what I want from life and how I want to live from day to day.
I’m the captain
As a former project manager I’m quite experienced in planning, evaluating and taking corrective actions in order to get where I want. The knowledge that you’re on the right path gives you energy to deal with rough days and short nights. I’m the captain, I know where to go, but sometimes you sail into troubled waters.
Most of us had our lives slightly changed during the pandemic. Also mine. Everything I had planned for was put on hold or canceled due to global and local restrictions.
Weeks and months passed by, my energy level dropped, my dreams changed and I realized I was on the wrong track.
Taking online art classes is fun and inspiring, you “meet” a lot of nice people, but at the end of the day, you are all alone in your studio. Your life and your wellbeing is your responsibility. No one will come knocking on your door to rescue you. It all comes down to: You have to deal with your own shit!
So what to do?
sailing against new horizons
Setting a new course
Taking corrective action in life is a bold move that requires courage and conviction.
Artists are often sensitive to the world around us, often with great empathy for other people. But sometimes we lack empathy for ourselves, or we might be too busy looking outwards. During the pandemic most of us had time to reflect.
– What’s important now?
– How do I want my life to be when the pandemic is over?
Realizing you’ve come to a crossroads in your life might be hard to accept, but trust your intuition – pay attention to your dreams and your happy thoughts.
Opportunity knocks
I’m not very skilled in sailing, but I do know how to plot a new course on a chart: So here I am happier than ever in my new almost full-time dayjob! Will have to adjust plans for my artist life though…
I read somewhere that being an artist is like having a permanent midlife crisis. Many artists experience that creativity is constantly fluctuating between ebb and flow. But don’t worry, the creative ocean is enormous!
Time to compost
Right now my creative energy is low due to other obligations (studies and preparing for upcoming exams).
Also I need time to reflect on what’s important now and what will be my next move. Or as my farmer husband puts it: Honey, you need time to compost. I think that’s a good way to see things: I need to compost. Time to be still, time to collect energy before I start growing. Hopefully this period of composting will help bring my work to the next level.
At school teachers kept talking about the spiral of creativity, meaning that students re-learn things on deeper levels.
abstracted message from within (detail)
Puzzles from the subconscious
Lately I’ve been working on a series of paintings that really puzzles me. When working intuitively I open up to receiving messages from the subconscious. It’s actually quite exciting not knowing what the painting is trying to express.
Working intuitively can of course be both frustrating and time consuming as the process stops when I’m unable to decipher the message, when I can’t find the story.
Some days I spend more time looking at a painting than actually painting.
Feedback
Working alone in my studio I sometimes miss feedback.
Of course I don’t expect family and friends to understand and give constructive feedback. Just like I don’t know shit about their job, they don’t know shit about my art! They’re just trying to be nice by telling me what they like and dislike.
But what resonates with you or my uncle doesn’t necessarily give me the answers I’m searching for, because our preferences are like a compass and we all have different trails to walk.
My best feedback comes from within. And if I’m really stuck I ask an artist colleague.
New beginnings
Some of you might know that my life is about to change and that I will fulfill a longtime dream by starting a new day job soon. But first I have a few exams to pass.
But right now it’s time to compost and spend some long overdue time with my family. Hope to go hiking with my best friend before the birch pollen season kicks in.
Being an artist today is a busy life. There’s not much time for Livin La Vida Loca. There are bills to pay, applications to write and pictures to paint. Marketing is another field. Sometimes it’s hard to keep focus. Luckily I’m a quite experienced project manager and motivator.
Livin La Vida Loca
What does an artist do all day?
You probably think that: Making art is the most important thing that artists do. But there is more to it than painting.
Daily tasks like mixing paints, preparing panels for painting, sealing them, cleaning brushes.
Weekly chores like paying bills, ordering new material, shipping out fresh work, organizing and cleaning the studio.
Administrative duties like scheduling appointments, answering email and press queries, communicating with gallerists, dealers, and collectors.
Marketing responsibilities like photographing new pieces, managing social media, writing newsletters and blogs. Uploading new work and maintaining the webshop.
When in the studio I try to structure my day to create periods of flow. Multitasking is not my cup of tea. Time management and focus is my secret weapon, because my energy goes to whatever I’m focused on.
You don’t always get what you wish for. You get what you work for.
I coach myself the same way I coach others and make sure to keep track of my projects in order to get where I want.
Mixing wet paint
Real Artist or not?
I believe anyone can become an artist if you really want to. But the work of great artists resonates with the audience and makes you feel something. True artists love what they do and make art to communicate something.
My work is about how the mysteries in life unfold in different ways. I paint from my heart to explore and express what cannot be said in words.
They say it takes about 10 000 hours of practice to master a discipline. Some art teachers claim all artists will make about 1000 ugly paintings in their career. I think I’ve done my fair share by now.
Studio time is Happy Time
I love going into my studio. Studio time is a happy time, even if the creative process sometimes gives rise to frustration. There are lots of decisions to be made every single day. So when in doubt I take a break, I take a walk or I dance. My experience is that moving my body helps boost creativity.
A day in my studio involves playful experimenting. Risk taking is vital and daring to fail is part of the learning curve. “What happens if I try…” is one of my mantras in the studio. I follow my curiosity and am willing to be different.
Exploring oil pastels on acrylic paint
Long hours in the Zone
When I’m focused I normally work long hours. When being in the zone, or in flow, in creative mode I have a tendency to forget eating and drinking, so my husband cooks and when he’s at work he kindly reminds me.
I’m not very fond of taking breaks. I prefer working till I’m finished and then call in the day to socialize with my family. Before going to bed I make sure to get some most needed unstructured time to reflect, or compost if you like. Without composting time my mind goes crazy, and I end up spending most of the night more or less awake figuring out new things to explore in my art practice.
As an artist I am well aware that I need to take care of my most important tool: My Body. Therefore I make sure to get my beauty sleep to increase health and well-being and to enhance cognitive ability and get those creative juices flowing.
My Studio Assistant
Every artist needs a muse. My studio assistant is the best! He has neither experience or a degree in fine arts. But he supports me in his very own special ways, and our life drawing sessions are wonderful. He loves modeling.
I would never ever swap him for another studio assistant.
Time to reflect is an important part of the creative process. Some days I spend more time looking at my paintings than painting. Why is that so? Artists have different creative processes: Some enter the studio with a clear idea in mind, start a new canvas and paint the picture. Just like that.
My creative process is more like this: I start with an idea, and then the painting becomes something else. I love the playful initial stages of the painting process where I explore happy accidents. For me the hardest part is taking a painting through the messy middle to the clarifying stage and finishing it.
No wonder I need time to reflect, or compost if you like. That’s why I have several paintings going on in my studio. So when one painting stops, I can continue working on another. I normally have loads of work in progress in my studio, but all of a sudden there are piles of finished paintings, too.
Writing about Art
Writing helps me reflect and clarify things. I’ve always enjoyed writing and I’ve been blogging about various topics for about 20 years.
7 years ago I started this art blog hoping to share some inside views from living the vida loca as an artist. Initially the art blog was meant for a smaller audience of family and friends, but I soon realized I have views and followers from all over the world. And that’s a boost!
Social Media
Putting your work out there is part of the game. If no one sees what I create, and no one wants to buy my art, I really need to win the lottery.
With the energy from The Year of the Tiger I decided to step up the game: So this month I welcome you to join my brand new Newsletter.
I’m a lifelong learner. I love a challenge, so this year I will find the courage to step outside my comfort zone, to climb out on a limb and reach for my next level of growth as an artist. I want to go all in!
Join my newsletter!
Happy to see you here
Why newsletter?
I offer you the chance to be the first to get news and special offers from my studio. News about upcoming exhibitions, opening nights, artist talks, workshops, open studios, giveaways and new art for sale.
By signing up for my newsletter you will get special discounts and get to grab brand new artworks before they enter my webshop.
How often?
I plan to send monthly newsletters, unless something very exciting and extremely urgent matters pops up on the horizon.
How to Sign Up
I will be sending my newsletter directly to your email inbox. If you cannot find your welcome email, please check your spam mail. Make sure to move my newsletter to your inbox and add me to your contact list.
There is a “Happy Place” for each of us. It’s a safe haven for happiness, a place that allows us to breathe deeply and find peace no matter what is happening in our lives. Some prefer their happy place to be a low-stimulation environment, where quiet stillness offers a feeling of being at peace that can last for a long time.
While knitting might be your happy place, My Happy Place is different.
My Studio is My Happy Place
My studio is my happy place!
Lots of people find their happy place in nature, or with animals. Studies show that spending just 20 minutes in nature boosts vitality levels significantly.
I’m the sort of person that needs to spend quiet time in solitude to refuel myself. Studio time gives me the chance to unwind and get away from the hamster wheel and the madness going on in the world.
My Happy Place brings me joy and happiness and fills me with energy. My studio is a wonderful space where I can “travel” to fabulous places, “meet” interesting people with fascinating stories and interact with my passion to let dreams and fantasies come true on the canvas.
My happy place has lots of positive impacts on me: In my studio I find courage to step outside my comfort zone, climb out on a limb, and reach for my next level of growth. My studio is the place where I can escape and feel happy, feel at peace with no interruptions of any sort – until night time when I wine and dine with my family.
Magic Mr Art Cat
Unique Life Experiences
Living a creative life is food for my soul. I believe painting heals, lifts me up, fills me with positive energy and hope! Studio time normally boosts my vitality levels and brings out the best in me. When I’m in creative mode no one can judge or harm me, except my inner critic. There are lots of decisions to make during the process.
Painting resembles life with its many layers of experiences. Some of them you want to paint over, while others really shine. There are happy days and not so exciting ones. The push and pull of living and painting, make the whole story of both you and me and every single painting, unique.
Therefore I believe that every artwork will reveal its own secrets to the right viewer. For me buying art is a soulful decision – and you instinctively know when to buy a painting!
I’m currently working on two parallel projects for my upcoming solo shows. These days I’m also considering whether to participate in a few group shows. So happy the pandemic is coming to an end!
There are no formal qualifications to become an artist assistant, although many assistants enter the job with a background in fine arts. My assistant has neither experience or a degree in fine arts.
The King of the Art Studio
My studio assistant is a model and a poser dreaming of being the King of the Art Studio. He sure knows when to step up the game to get his treats and make me brush his fur till it shines. Mr Handsome Cat also tells me when it’s time to turn his woolen blanket.
I admit it: I’m his slave, he is my master and I think he is drop-dead gorgeous!
Meet My Studio Assistant
My Magic Art Assistant
Apart from being drop-dead gorgeous, super smart, friendly, soft and furry, he is absolutely magic! Mr Magic Art Assistant even likes my studio music (contrary to the rest of the family). He knows exactly when I’m stuck and in desperate need for a hug and a nice cup of tea. No wonder, he practically grew up in my studio!
Tiny Accidents
But sometimes we’ve had tiny accidents: Like the very first day in the studio when he suddenly jumped up on the table and stepped right into my wet paint. Of course, I immediately removed the blue paint under his feet, so he wouldn’t lick off the acrylic paint himself. Once he managed to taste the green water behind my back. But normally he just relaxes somewhere safe in his own very special place. So, no trouble at all!
tiny art cat first day in studio
Studio Chores
Instead ofadministrative duties – like scheduling appointments, answering email and press queries, communicating with gallerists, dealers, and collectors – Mr Art Cat provides artistic support like purring and well… purring.
Instead of mixing paints and preparing panels for painting, he sleeps.
Instead of cleaning the brushes, he slowly and carefully licks his fur for hours.
Instead of bringing me food, he screams for me to come watch him eat.
Napping is vital for Mr Art Cat
Yeah! Looks perfect, Mom
Mr Cat’s favourite wool blanket
As days go by in the art studio
Refreshing Walks in the Woods
During summer months we often have lunch in the nearby woods. His woods. After lunch Mr Cat normally takes the frustrated artist for a walk to clear the mind. Yes, it’s true. We take walks together. But he refuses to swim in the river with me. Well, you can’t have everything!
Let’s go for a walk, mom!
Time to Reflect
When it’s time to reflect, my assistant is the best. He curls up and we talk and reflect until he wants to go outside. Sometimes we work on art texts for blogging, like today – I do the writing, while he watches birds and squirrels on youtube. He loves when I read out loud!
Life Drawing Sessions
Our life drawing sessions are the best. They make a cornerstone of training arts and living La Vida Loca, or the artist’s life, in our shared studio. This is the only time I’m allowed to sit in the studio arm chair.
As you might have guessed, the studio arm chair is His Highness’ Throne.
My assistant watching the Cat People
Cat People
I think Mr Handsome Studio Cat likes modeling best. I actually made a whole series called Cat People to honor our relationship! Part of the series was exhibited in 2019. Mr Drop-Dead-Handsome just loves it when I look at him all the time! And I love him dearly! It’s a win-win situation.
Artists and Their Cats
Many artists have shared their studio with cats: Salvador Dali, Pablo Picasso, Frida Kahlo, Gustav Klimt, Georgia O’Keeffe, Jean-Michel Basquiat and Ai Weiwei to name a few. So I’m not alone!
Looking back, creating art has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. To most of those who know me, it’s no surprise I ended up living the vida loca as an artist. After a long and winding road I finally found my true calling ten years ago.
Back in the Days
As I remember them, my early years of childhood seem to be quite lighthearted and enjoyable. Back in the days, young children growing up in the countryside were normally playing outside with friends, while their parents were tending livestock, working the fields or taking a nap after dinner.
I really enjoyed my own company and had lots of freedom and long hours of roaming the hoods, trying to figure out life’s mysteries and searching for fun.
The Tiny Artist
The Tiny Artist
My dad had plenty of tools, so at the age of 4 the tiny artist was stone carving day after day, fully determined to become a sculptor and make gigantic statues. A few weeks later I gave up because I couldn’t find stones that would let me form them the way I wanted; the materials were either too hard or too soft. And my wrists were really hurting from all the hammering.
Then I tried working with clay from the nearby seashore without significant success.
Sadly my carpentry didn’t come out like I wanted, either – so I went back to drawing, encouraged by Grandma who was happy to model for me every day.
First Art Exhibit
At the age of 5 I had my first art exhibit in Grandma’s house. All the neighbors were invited and Grandma served coffee and homemade cookies.
To my big surprise I sold my first drawing. And Grandma told everyone that I was going to become an artist.
Years passed by
Through adolescence I was sketching, drawing and writing for hours every night. I hardly had time to sleep. At 16 life took a new turn. Years passed by; life was filled with schoolwork, sports, friends and parties.
Good years, by all means, but my creative spirit was not nurtured except for a few lucky hours every now and then. Some nights I skipped sleeping, or I couldn’t sleep at all, because my brain was in creative mode.
Art student working
Dreamt I was painting
Night after night I dreamt I was painting large canvases with bold marks and vivid colors; weird and wonderful abstract motives. They say that what you dream of, over and over again, is telling you to pay attention to that theme in your waking life. That your subconscious is trying to connect you to something that’s important for you.
So I tried watercolor and ink, but didn’t quite get the expression I wanted. I tried oil painting and hated the smell, but OMG! was I the most popular girl roaming the bars for a few weeks with oil paint in my hair and stains on my hands…
Photography was a lot of fun, but I never got around to apply for studies in New York. And since Bergen was totally out of the question I started working again. And all of a sudden I was caught up in Family Life, university studies and coaching handball. Time flies when you’re having fun!
The Local Art School
At 50 I discovered the local art school. Half way through my second day in summer class at Nydalen Kunstskole, I had kind of a spiritual awakening – a feeling of being connected with something I’ve been looking for my whole life. I finally had found my true calling and that autumn I attended art school.
Sometimes, dreams come true or tell of a future event.
Time flies when you’re having fun! That’s for sure! Early this summer serendipity knocked on my door and intuition told me to jump on the art train passing by. I have not regretted one single minute, not even a second! I have found my joy!
(C) copyright. All rights reserved Art by Rekkebo
Having fun is vital
I had so much fun doing Louise Fletcher’s free taster that I signed up for the full 10 week course and exchanged my plans for a lazy summer holiday with long hours of work in my art studio. I didn’t get much of a sun tan this year, but I gained artistic insights and had a ball!
For me having fun is vital for my well being and when things get too serious or busy I get overwhelmed and lose my energy. This summer has been amazing!
Small works for big changes
Working small on sheets of paper has many advantages when you master the format. You get to experiment a lot more and finish work in a smaller amount of time and you get to know your preferences; what you like or don’t like.
(C) copyright. All rights reserved Art by Rekkebo
Intuitive process
When working on technical paper or sheets of canvas paper I feel free to follow my intuition, I feel free to play and never think of “ruining” an expensive gallery canvas for that matter. Working on paper also means I can sell works at affordable prices.
Feeling fearless
Another aspect of working small is that there’s really nothing to lose: If your painting sucks, make another and notice what you do and don’t like. It’s called learning and the more I learn about my preferences, the more “me” my paintings get.
My favourite idea when working in my studio is: “I wonder what happens if”… and this is how some of my small playful works give rise to big, bold changes.
(C) copyright. All rights reserved Art by Rekkebo
I’m So Excited for what’s to come!
Well, to make a long story short I had so much fun and learned so much doing the full 10 week course this summer, that I signed up for the brand new 6 week master class starting in a couple of weeks. I’m so excited for what’s to come!
My, my what a splendid way to spend the summer! I’ve had so much fun painting almost every day. I’ve already learned A LOT and I’m filled with positive energy, good vibes and hope for the future. I actually LOVE my artist life at the moment and can hardly wait to enter my studio. The drawback is, of course, my lack of suntan…
(C) copyright. All rights reserved Art by Rekkebo
Serendipity knocks
In my previous blog postI told you that serendipity knocked on my door as I was closing my studio for the summer, planning for lazy holidays with family and friends. This summer my intuition kicked ass and turned my summer plans upside down.
Intuition rocks
Today I feel like the luckiest artist in the world thanks to the wonderful teachings of Louise Fletcher, her team of coaches and my fellow artists taking the course. My energy is back, doubts are gone, and I’m ready to conquer the world! Good thing I listened to myself, even if my suntan this year will be minimal. Muahaha!
(C) copyright. All rights reserved Art by Rekkebo
Transition ritual
Joining this course feels like a transition ritual where my inner artist is coming of age. As an anthropologist I’m well aware that rituals are symbolic passages from one stage to another – so my feeling of “coming of age” as an artist is, of course, on an emotional level, but hopefully it will show in my art practise and my body of work.
Let loose, feel free
As you might remember, I’ve been struggling with my work for some time, feeling tense and frustrated. Now my studio has transformed back to My Happy Place thanks to the exercises, tips and tricks we learn and share with each other.
Finding my joy
For me letting loose, feeling free, playing and experimenting is just what I need to find my joy and creative energy! There are so many ways to lose track of what’s the most important things in your life. When things get too serious, I tend to lose track of my path. For me, playing and having fun is vital. Especially in the studio.
(C) copyright. All rights reserved Art by Rekkebo
Relaxing in the hammock
Balance is another important aspect of human living. Our modern society is very busy and one is supposed to refuel and heal within hours or weeks. I simply LOVE canoeing with my family and I also like spending time in my hammock, reading books or staring up at the sky. That’s a nice way to recap my day and have a little chat with my cat.
As I was closing my studio preparing for a long summer holiday, serendipity knocked on my door. It’s said that “When the student is ready, the teacher will appear!” I never thought that quoting these words in my June blog post would make a difference, but Boy! Was I wrong!
So be prepared for what you wish for!
(C) copyright. All rights reserved Art by Rekkebo
My art practise is my life line
Almost every single day I create something. That’s my priority. I feel like my studio time fills me with energy. Expressing myself through painting, sketching and collage helps me be more aware of what is going on inside, especially when things are busy outside and the world situation is hard to grasp.
Having fun is my fuel
The hardest part of creating is finding my own voice. On my way through art school, workshops and classes I somehow lost my joy. Last spring I dragged myself into the studio, only to find that I didn’t like what I was creating. Now, that sucks! Imagine going to your happy place, getting stuck and feeling frustrated. Some say that being an artist is like having a midlife crisis your entire life…
(C) copyright. All rights reserved Art by Rekkebo – Having fun is my fuel!
Serendipity knocks
Thanks to my art friend Cheri, whom I met through the international creative community Canary Rising, I finally discovered “My Octopus Teacher” – if you haven’t watched that film yet, please do!
Brilliant teachings
What a life changing experience to have found British abstract artist Louise Fletcher and her brilliant teachings. Louise is a down to earth teacher with excellent motivational skills and strategies that really helps you get back to basics, letting loose and feeling free!
Louise’s free taster course in the first half of June filled me with so much joy and hope that I signed up for a full ten week course and skipped my summer holidays!
I’m so excited! I can hardly wait for next week’s teachings and assignment!
(C) copyright. All rights reserved Art by Rekkebo – I love ripping off the tape
Spiralling upwards, downwards or sideways?
In art school my teachers often talked about how artists work in spirals, meaning that when learning new techniques you add to your toolbox so you can make art at a higher level. So far, so good.
The downside of learning all that new stuff is that you might get lost, forget about who you are as an artist and spiral yourself down, or enter someone else’s spiral.
Last spring I felt tense and stuck. I didn’t seem to get anything right. I was sick and tired of creating paintings that sucked. I had completely lost my joy and I felt like spiralling downwards. And I had absolutely no clue how to push my art further.
Don’t stop looking!
But: If you’re searching for something, even if you cannot pinpoint exactly what it is, don’t stop looking – because one day you will find what resonates with you! For me having fun is essential; I love playing and experimenting! For me Louise’s and her team’s teachings are spot on!
This is my journey – I will find my joy – and make my studio my happy place!
(C) copyright. All rights reserved Art by Rekkebo
Summertime fine
Today painting almost feels like an out-of-body experience, I’m so excited and I love love love being in flow having fun in my studio.
My journey as an artist began ten years ago as I entered the local art school for a week-long summer course called Finding Your Artistic Voice. I was a complete beginner. Except for a few attempts with watercolor, I had never painted before and barely knew upside down on the paint brush.
One of my first paintings (c) Copyright. All rights reserved Art by Rekkebo
I found my true calling
On day two I realised I had finally found my calling. My results were nothing to brag about, but I loved the creative process. It was a very intense and hot summer week with deep diving into inner landscapes, lovely lunches outside and refreshing swimming in the river with new friends.
The teacher was a well known artist who sometimes gave me a creepy feeling as she laughed at my beginner attempts at colour mixing and criticised my way of using the paintbrush. Therefore I somehow didn’t think the teacher was walking the talk, but she kind of saw right through me and I was strongly encouraged to enter the two year art program. And for that I am forever grateful.
A gift from my family
The summer course was a birthday gift from my family. My husband and my son witnessed the immediate impact this creative week course had on my wellbeing, so the following month I enrolled as an art student, finally at the age of 50. Looking back I regret not doing this years ago, but life has been filled with other things.
The following two years my learning curve was steep as I had spent most of my life fulfilling others expectations, not listening to my inner self. They say there is a crack in everything, and that is where the light gets in. I don’t know who I’d be without my creative practice. Entering my studio is like coming home on a deeper level.
Stressful years
For years I worked full time jobs and made art during evenings, weekends and holidays. I hardly had any energy to meet friends, and my poor family only saw me during meals and when I fell asleep on the sofa totally worn out. I have no idea how many movies I slept through while my tea got cold.
Working two careers is demanding, and as my everyday life started to feel like a mountain to climb, and I began to feel dead inside, I realised I had to change my priorities and went for less stressful day jobs. Over the years I have spent long hours of hard work alone in the studio to push my art forward. Years of poor income have taught me not to spend money.
I love working with colours (c) Copyright. All rights reserved Art by Rekkebo
Never stop dreaming
To me being an artist means quite a few sacrifices. We only have 24 hours and 7 days a week. I plan my days well in order to accomplish what I want. Artist life is sometimes stressful, but I’ll never stop trying to fulfil my dream.
Trusting my inner voice has been a hard trial, guess I wasn’t brave enough to listen, maybe I was told I wasn’t good enough too often. When you feel your life is too small for you it’s time to make a leap! Time to unfold! Trust your inner voice, it demands to be heard!
10 years and 10 000 hours later
They say you need about 10 000 hours of practice to become really good at something. My art practice has covered several trials and errors, exploration, failure and happy coincidences. I have painted small and big, painted over again and sold a few. I have taken workshops, had exhibitions, even attended a third year at the local art school. I’ve learnt techniques and made loads of paintings in different styles, but I’m still searching.
10 years later I am eager to find my true artistic voice. But when the student is ready, the teacher will appear! So I carry on.
Never too late (c) Copyright. All rights reserved Art by Rekkebo
Like many artists I dream of pushing my artwork forward so it looks more like the artwork I visualise and the artwork I make while asleep. For years I’ve had vivid dreams about filling really large canvases with abstract non-objective paintings. These paintings look amazing, but when I go painting in my studio my work looks very different. So in order to get a little closer, I’ve made a plan.
(c) Copyright. All rights reserved Art by Rekkebo
I heard that if you paint from your mind, it won’t work. You have to paint from your heart and soul. The tricky part is that you have to use your intuition to get there. And that might be a challenge, because my intuition has more or less been switched off since early childhood. So what to do?
Recurring shapes, patterns and lines
Throughout my almost 10 year long art practise I have noticed that some shapes, patterns and lines are recurring over and over again. This especially happens when I’m in flow, when my (over)thinking left brain is taking a break and I just play and explore and completely forget about the rest of the world. When time is totally irrelevant, when I don’t need food, drink or rest. I love being in flow.
My studio is my happy place
Normally my studio is my happy place. But lately I have been feeling tense and restricted when in my studio. I feel stuck. My paintings suck. I don’t seem to get anything right. I’m sick and tired of this whole art project. All the fun is gone and it somehow feels wasteless to stay on my art path. I think I’ve lost my mojo. In times like this one sure needs a change: there is no point in continuing to repeat the same shit. I need to stop doing what I don’t like!
Searching for myself
At some point in art school we did research on our early works to see if there were recurring elements, and we were encouraged to make a log of our personal language of shapes, patterns and marks. Last spring while working on my graduate project, I made a journal containing my visual alphabet. This spring I went through my existing body of work looking for composition details. And, to my nice surprise, I found some good stuff that I really like. So, there is hope!
(c) Copyright. All rights reserved Art by Rekkebo
Next step collage
Next step in my process is making collage based on my findings. Making collage is both fun and challenging. Making my own collage material is a playful way to start my day in the studio. I find that working with a set of limitations gives me freedom to experiment within the set frames, and I often use a timer to avoid overthinking what I’m up to. The main thing is to let loose, to play, experiment and have fun! If it’s not fun, then I’m on the wrong track!
Mixed media
Recently I started experimenting with mixed media and I kind of like the combination of layering with acrylic paint, collage materials, ink, markers, charcoal and oil sticks. I’ve come to think of the layers as life experiences. In the studio some of them are covered up, but they still shine through or stick out like traces of history. It’s all part of what makes a person, or an artwork unique. Life in and outside the studio is not so different after all.
(c) Copyright. All rights reserved Art by Rekkebo
Cruising the internet
I’m not sure how smart it is to scroll through facebook, instagram and watch youtube videos when you are in search of yourself… but I admit I sometimes do, even if it is really scary to see how good some artists are.
I try not to compare myself with others, but sometimes I stumble over things that remind me of the art from my dreams, so I try to figure out how they have made their artworks and try to adapt some of the findings into my own work. The possibilities are overwhelming and I often get confused and frustrated when I cannot make it work. Now that’s a vicious circle.
Evolving as an artist
I never understand artists who make the same paintings over and over again. Some of them claim to have a ball, while others are frustrated and stuck with gallery expectations. Maybe there’s something wrong with me because I easily get bored and want to try something different, explore and see what happens. Maybe I haven’t found myself as an artist yet?
Inner landscapes
I heard that real artists paint from their heart and soul. But when creating from your heart and soul, you need to get in contact with your inner true self. The only gut feeling I ever had was stomach pain due to food allergies. Growing up I experienced that feelings often made things worse and that logic and reasoning was the way to go. Years later I find that it takes courage to look inside, and you never know what shows up from the subconscious layers. The question is how do I express my emotions in abstract ways that touch your feelings?
(c) Copyright. All rights reserved Art by Rekkebo
Having fun is my fuel
Right now the trick is to find what keeps my creative juices flowing. I need to find a way of nurturing myself, a means to fill the artist part of me with fuel that keeps me going, energy that keeps me pushing my art forward and closer to the paintings I dream of making. I need to free myself and unstuck whatever is holding me back. Because I love creating, I honestly don’t know who I am without my creative studio time. I suspect that my fuel is HAVING FUN!
Developing a unique style
When letting loose and having fun in my studio is established, I will explore and experiment different methods of putting things together in my personal abstract mix. I can hardly wait, all of a sudden I am super duper motivated! I love planning, and I know I’ll get there!
Even if it takes a lifetime
As long as I am creating there is hope! I will keep on searching for my artistic voice and continue abstractifying my work. Some say it takes a lifetime. I suspect I will need another incarnation to fulfil my dream, but I will never give up!
Hope for the best, prepare for the worst and expect nothing! A year ago I had no idea what impact Covid-19 would have around the globe and how it would affect my daily life. Today I know a lot more. I’m glad I didn’t know everything forehand. Sometimes it’s best to accept the situation and don’t push the river, so to speak.
Cancelled and closed
I admit it has been a bit tricky to stay optimistic the past year. I mean, most of my plans are on hold and the corona situation will probably make sure it stays like that for quite some time. Like many other artists, the only thing I can do is work, work, work alone in my studio and hope for better times to come. Sometimes it feels like my painting sessions continue long into my sleep, like a neverending story.
All shows are cancelled. All workshops are cancelled. Even art supply shops are closed. I have run out of several mediums and therefore have to improvise. Most likely I’ll have to order something from an online store just to get things going.
Making collage (c) Copyright. All rights reserved Art by Rekkebo
No man is an island – or?
They say “no man is an island” meaning that most people need to be part of a community in order to thrive. This capital city has been more or less closed down for five months and we are all pretty isolated. Maybe it’s time to rethink how we downsize our health care systems, organize our work and communities and how we live our lives?
As some of you have read and commented on earlier, an art school is not particularly suitable for online schooling while working on your graduate project. Last year Covid-19 forced all supervision to take place in a virtual classroom and in such moments it’s hard to keep the motivation going. In times like this you have to trust the process and seek inspiration elsewhere.
Small collages in the making (c) Copyright. All rights reserved Art by Rekkebo
My global collage village
A year ago, as Oslo closed down, I quickly understood that I needed to get myself a hobby and a creative online community to hang out with. Luckily I came across a fantastic group of international collage artists. I have learned so much from making collage, taking online classes, discussing with morning birds and night owls and hanging out with these wonderful people. My art collection has grown along with my hope! So thank you Canaries, you really inspire me to grow my wings!
April 1. 2020 I made my very first 5 minute intuitive collage. One year later I have taken on a few challenges and made some progress. I do not compare myself to artists with 10 plus years of experience – they do amazing works! And I’m still a beginner. But as long as I’m happy, I carry on. Doing it my way. I find making collage to be both relaxing and challenging and very suitable in my ongoing process of abstractifying my work.
This April (2021) I focused on making a series of 36 collages and I’m actually quite happy with some of them. A few even found their way overseas. I will definitely dedicate more time to working with collage. But first I will try to add collage into my paintings.
36 small collages on my wall (c) Copyright. All rights reserved Art by Rekkebo
Coming in from the cold with fresh eyes
We had a really cold winter this year. Since I have moved my studio home, opening windows was not a preferred thing to do, so I had to come up with less smelly ways of working. Making collage is one of them. Working small and journaling is another. Rethinking and retextualisation is part of the process. So I’m not looking for “new landscapes”, I use “fresh eyes” to see what is already there.
It’s not always what you look at that matters, it’s what you see. So, I’m kind of looking for traces, searching for myself…or rather; new ways of “inventing” my art.
What if?
When time is abundant and money is scarce, when your studio is smaller than your big dreams, when you run out of your favourite art supplies – what do you do? You either freak out or you try new things! I wonder what happens if I do this or that? Or try another way? My next project might be using my grandmother’s sewing machine on my canvases. The sewing machine that only runs backwards. Wohoo, that might be a lot of fun!
Never give up, keep trying and practise every day! Success comes in many different shapes and forms. Have faith and have fun!
Most people seem to like every season, enjoying snowboarding and skiing during the winter. I never really fancied the cold as it makes me tired, frustrated and sick. Where I grew up we missed the sun for a couple of months during winter and everyday life was quite gloomy.
Grandma’s flowers
Luckily my grandmother knew a trick or two to endure life. Her favourite spring hobby was FLOWERS. We looked through all her floral magazines, took care of her pelargoniums and planned the flower beds, while listening to popular flower power music on the radio. And of course, while waiting for the snow to melt, Grandma encouraged the little artist to make colourful drawings and paintings of all the spring flowers to come.
So… when the going gets tough, I make flowers! Just like Grandma taught me…
(c) Copyright. All rights reserved Art by Rekkebo
Dreaming of summer
In my last blogg, I wrote about how February was quite challenging and that I started dreaming of summer by making small mixed media paintings of vases and urns to focus on something positive after months of cold winds, snow and darkness. Not to mention the pandemic still going on.
Main focus in March
My main focus in March is a continuation of February’s work; “same same, but different”. Abstract painting is where I feel most at home. This month I work bigger and bolder, on stretched canvas and trying my best to experiment and implement new techniques into my work. Daylight is back in my studio for a few hours every day, weather and health conditions are improving and hope is slowly returning. Even the cat seems happier. Life is finally returning!
Large canvases
Working on large canvases means you need more energy to stand upright for hours, walking back and forth looking at and working the canvas. Of course, you need a lot more time to finish a large painting than a small. Some days I feel up to it, other days I don’t. But the overall feeling is good, and I will have to go with the flow.
(c) Copyright. All rights reserved Art by Rekkebo
New series of paintings
Going really big is still out of the question, due to circumstances, but I am an optimistic person and started working on 9 canvases of various sizes (from 50×40 cm up to 80×60 cm). Before the month is over I have finished 3 of them, 3 still need a few more layers and some finishing touches, and 3 has a way to go. Hopefully they will all be finished and ready to exhibit after pandemic restrictions are gone. Time will show.
Playful days
My art practise is full of surprises. Every month I work on various projects, sizes and media. I like playing and exploring new possibilities (what happens if I do this or that?) and learning new techniques. Reading, journaling and writing poems is also part of my creative work.
Next month I plan to relax with my family during Easter Holidays and work on improving my collage making skills. I really want to reach the next level!
Take care and make sure to have some fun! Life is too important to be taken seriously!
Oh boy, what a freezing cold February we had this year. The cat cried and refused to leave the house. My brain was going in circles, so I forced myself to endure the short walk to the local library once a week to pick up a stack of interesting books before crawling back under the blanket together with my poor cat.
(c) art by rekkebo
Lack of motivation
I had numerous cups of tea and felt like decomposing every time I looked out the window. No motivational quotes would ever get me through this horrible winter. I realised I had to DO SOMETHING to get myself back on track. I had to step up!
Nurturing myself
Still not feeling fit for fight after being sick on and off since last spring when the pandemic hit, I decided to go back to my old friend yoga. Sadly I found that even very small doses of yoga would knock me out for 2-3 days, so I had to plan well to avoid the fatigue reaction and think of new ways to nurture my creative self.
In case you wondered, severe headaches, neck pain and brain fog does not exactly boost your cognitive resources. I could barely focus nor think, and the same thoughts repeated themselves over and over again. Luckily they were happy thoughts!
Dreaming of summer
For days and weeks I could think of nothing but spring flowers and lazy summer days, so I obeyed and started painting what my mind was full of.
With so little energy to spend each day, I realised I had to sit down at my desk and work small. My initial plans of going big this spring was out of the question.
Looking for motifs
A year ago I was working on my third year graduate art project and looking through my sketchbooks I found my mother’s vases and my grandma’s urns. I had a new project!
Abstract painting is where I feel most at home. But working small is a challenge. I also wanted to add more layers and introduce some new techniques in my paintings. Maybe try out new colour combinations as well.
Think big, work small
There are many advantages when working small: You can sit down at your desk while working. You can finish a small painting in a relatively small amount of time. You can make several variations of the same motif and try out different things. You might take a picture of your painting and put it through one of those interior apps to see what it would look like on a big scale. Some of them turn out pretty cool – and one day I just might PAINT BIG again!
Wohoo! Kickstarting the new year with 21 glimpses from my art world. This challenge is a new experience for me, and I had so much fun sharing from behind the scenes. Thank you for joining me on this adventure!
Happy artist (c) art by rekkebo
The #21daysinmyartworld challenge, by artist Tara Leaver, is designed with daily prompts to shed some light on my art process, and allow you to get to know the artist behind the work.
Juhu! Sparker i gang det nye året med 21 glimt fra min kunstverdenen. Denne utfordringen er en ny opplevelse for meg og det var litt skummelt, men mest moro, å dele litt fra hva som skjer bak kulissene. Takk for at du ble med på dette eventyret!
Utfordringen # 21daysinmyartworld av kunstneren Tara Leaver, kommer med daglige tips til hvordan kaste lys over kunstprosessen og gi deg muligheter til å bli litt kjent med kunstneren bak arbeidet.
Daily prompts
The prompts made me reflect and share with you some of the insights I’ve made so far; like sometimes you have to let go of the old to make room for something new – and how I start my days in the studio to create happiness and energy for the more focused work to come, and how not to end my days (by ruining the painting).
I posted some of my favourite paintings, current motifs, work in progress and I shared pics from my creative nest (studio) and revealed a few secrets, some milestones of my artist journey. And of course, I introduced the audience to my important tuxedo muses.
The adventure took me to new horizons; I made new friends, read fascinating stories and learned so much from other artists of all levels taking part in this challenge. I am so impressed how artists think outside the box to get past obstacles like time, place and space in order to do what they like most; making art.
Daglige utfordringer
Ved å delta i denne utfordringen fikk jeg anledning til å reflektere og dele noen av erfaringene jeg har gjort så langt. Slik som at man noen ganger må gi slipp på det gamle for å få plass til noe nytt – og hvordan begynner dagene i atelieret for å oppnå mest mulig skaperglede, energi og fokus for mer tidkrevende presisjonsarbeid. Og fremfor alt hvordan jeg skal unngå å ødelegge for meg selv.
Jeg har delt noen av favorittmaleriene mine, aktuelle motiver, pågående arbeid og bilder fra det kreative reiret mitt (atelieret). Jeg delte både hemmeligheter og milepæler fra min kunstneriske reise. Og jeg introduserte noen av mine viktigste inspirasjonskilder.
Utfordringen tok meg til andre horisonter, jeg fikk nye venner, leste fascinerende historier og lærte masse fra kunstnere på ulike nivåer som også deltok i dette eventyret. Jeg er så imponert over hvordan kunstnere tenker utenfor boksen for å komme forbi hindringer som tid og sted for å gjøre det de liker best; å lage kunst.
(c) art by rekkebo
I make art, therefore I am an artist!
My grandmother kept telling everyone that I was going to be an artist. I think I sold my first drawing at the age of 5, and I kept on drawing, painting with watercolours and photographing for years and years. But I didn’t think of myself as an artist, even if “everyone” suggested I was one. The turning point came at 50 as I entered a summer course at the local art school. I’ll never ever forget that tuesday in july when I finally found what I have been looking for. The summer art course was a gift from my son and husband. And I have painted almost every day since then.
Jeg lager kunst, ergo er jeg kunstner!
Min bestemor fortalte alle at jeg skulle bli kunstner når jeg ble stor. Jeg tror jeg solgte min første tegning da jeg var 5 år, og jeg fortsatte å tegne, male med akvarellfarger og fotografere år etter år. Men jeg tenkte aldri på meg selv som kunstner, selv om “alle” mente jeg var det. Vendepunktet kom da jeg var 50 og tok et sommerkurs på den lokale kunstskolen. Jeg glemmer aldri den tirsdagen i juli da jeg endelig fant det jeg hadde lett etter. Sommerkurset var en gave fra sønnen og mannen min. Siden har jeg malt nesten hver dag!
Thank you
Loved to take this journey with you and show you what’s inside my art world. Thank you for supporting me, thanks for all your likes and cheerful comments! You are such a wonderful audience!
Stay tuned for next month’s journey exploring my unique artistic voice!
Tusen takk
Det har vært kjempefint å dele denne reisen med deg og vise deg litt fra innsiden av min kunstverdenen. Tusen takk for at du heier på meg, gir tommel opp, liker og kommer med oppmuntrende kommentarer! Hatten av for en herlig heiagjeng!
Følg med på neste måneds reise der jeg utforsker min unike kunstneriske stemme!
Thank you so much for buying my art! It gives me a lot of energy and creative joy! Love all your nice feedback and inquiries regarding my work. Unfortunately, I am a little behind with the orders, but trust me they will come!
Tusen takk for at dere kjøper bildene mine! Det gir meg masse energi og skaperglede! Veldig moro med alle hyggelige tilbakemeldinger og henvendelser. Jeg henger dessverre litt etter med bestillingene, men de kommer, de kommer!
Digital theft
It feels horrible to find out that my pictures are stolen and sold on dubious websites. I have previously been spared for digital theft, but this fall I had some devastating news. To avoid future digital thefts, I have therefore changed the quality and image size of what I post online. Sad, because this affects all of you good people with honest intentions.
Digitalt tyveri
Det er skikkelig kjipt når bildene mine stjeles og selges på tvilsomme nettsider. Jeg har tidligere vært forskånet for den slags, men i høst fikk jeg meg en durabelig nedtur. For å unngå fremtidige digitale tyverier, ser jeg meg derfor nødt til å endre kvalitet og bildestørrelse på det jeg legger ut på nett. Trist, fordi dette går utover alle dere som har ærlige hensikter.
A strange year
2020 has been a busy year, and a very different year, marked by Covid-19, which put an end to many plans. The spring term at art school was therefore strongly influenced by online studies, which is far from optimal during the 3rd school year’s most important period working on my graduate project in visual arts. Fortunately, opportunities arose to hold an exhibition in Gallery C-14 when the corona restrictions opened up for it. This autumn has also been characterized by restrictions, but you learn to improvise, so I have spent my autumn months well; they have been packed with new inspiration and long work hours in my studio.
Et underlig år
2020 har vært et travelt år, og et veldig annerledes år preget av Covid-19 som satte en stopper for mange planer. Vårsemesteret ved kunstskolen ble derfor sterkt preget av nettstudier, hvilket er langt fra optimalt under 3.årets viktigste periode og arbeidet med hovedoppgaven. Heldigvis kom muligheter for å arrangere utstilling i galleri C-14 når korona-restriksjonene åpnet for det. Høstsemesteret har også vært preget av restriksjoner, men man lærer å improvisere, så jeg har brukt høstmånedene godt, de har vært fullspekket av ny inspirasjon og intenst arbeid i atelieret.
Closed studio
This December, my studio has been closed after a busy autumn and I have spent time with my family. Truth be told, my health has faltered a little bit more than usual this strange year. I have therefore tried to spoil and nurture myself during this dark period of the year. Because health is important for my creativity.
I feel fine and I’m looking forward to getting back in my studio. I have so many ideas and soon it’s time to plan for the year to come. I hope for a prosperous year!
In the meantime, I wish you all a happy new year!
Stengt atelier
Denne desembermåneden har atelieret vært stengt etter en travel høst og jeg har brukt tid og energi på familien. Sant å si så har vel helsa skranglet litt mer enn vanlig dette underlige året, jeg har derfor forsøkt å pleie meg selv litt ekstra godt i denne mørke tiden. For helsa er viktig for kreativiteten, så det er godt å kjenne at det kribler litt og at jeg gleder meg til å komme igang igjen med å lage bilder.
Jeg har mange ideer og snart er det tid for å planlegge året som kommer. La oss inderlig håpe det blir et fruktbart år!
I mellomtiden ønsker jeg alle et riktig godt nytt år!
Through art we can change the world! Twitter Art Exhibit (TAE20) utilizes social media and public engagement to generate income for charities and nonprofit organizations. 80% of the art sale goes directly to a different charity each year.
TAE20 is the 10th anniversary and I am proud to announce that this is the fourth year I take part in Twitter Art Exhibit by donating a mini piece of original art especially made for this global event. This year my entry made the front cover of the catalogue.
10th anniversary #TAE20
About TAE
Twitter Art Exhibit was founded by scandinavian artist David Sandum in 2009. This is the 10th year TAE make the world a little bit better through the sale of original postcard-sized artwork.
Charity exhibit
This year’s Twitter Art Exhibit was originally scheduled for April, but had to be postponed due to Covid-19 restrictions. TAE20 is curated by Debanjana Bhattacharjee and will be hosted in Myrtle Beach, USA. The exhibition will take place at local artist William H. Miller’s gallery.
Here is my postcard-sized, handmade original artwork.
Miss Myrtle – Copyright (c) Art by Rekkebo
Where to find it
The chosen charity to benefit from this global art exhibition is Horry County Disabilities and Special Needs – HCDSN, located in Myrtle Beach/Conway area of South Carolina. HCDSN aims to develop and extend the art program to offer additional art classes as well as enhance the individual’s opportunity to also engage in statewide community art exhibitions. Read more about HCDSN here https://hcdsn.org/
Gjennom kunst kan vi forandre verden! Twitter Art Exhibit (TAE20) bruker sosiale medier og offentlig engasjement for å generere inntekter for veldedige organisasjoner og ideelle organisasjoner. 80% av kunstsalget går direkte til veldedighet hvert år.
TAE har tiårsjubileum i år og jeg er deltar i Twitter Art Exhibit for fjerde gang gjennom å donere original kunst i et format spesielt laget for denne globale begivenheten. I år kom bidraget mitt med på forsiden av katalogen. Så gøy!
Om TAE
Twitter Art Exhibit ble grunnlagt av den skandinaviske kunstneren David Sandum i 2009. Dette er det tiende året TAE gjør verden litt bedre gjennom salg av originale kunst i postkortstørrelse.
Årets Twitter Art Exhibit var opprinnelig planlagt til april, men måtte utsettes på grunn av Covid-19 restriksjoner. TAE20 er kuratert av Debanjana Bhattacharjee og vil finne sted i Myrtle Beach, USA i galleriet til den lokale kunstneren William H. Miller.
Veldedighetsutstilling
Årets utvalgte veldedighetsorganisasjon er Horry County Disabilities and Special Needs – HCDSN, som ligger i Myrtle Beach / Conway-området i South Carolina. HCDSN har som mål å utvikle og utvide kunstprogrammet og tilby flere kunstklasser, samt forbedre den enkeltes mulighet til å delta i statlige samfunnskunstutstillinger. Les mer om organisasjonen her https://hcdsn.org/
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