Introduction

Hailing from the picturesque Norwegian fjord landscape around Stordal, I have not only embraced the natural beauty of my environment but have also integrated it into my unique printmaking art. In this blog post, you will delve into my incredible journey of my passion for printmaking, and how the breathtaking landscapes of Stordal and my permaculture garden have shaped my artistic vision.

My artistic journey as an artist began in my late thirties, formerly educated in radiology and being at home for several years with small children changed my perspective on my fascination for human anatomy in relation to the rhythms of nature. I would spend hours exploring the forests and coastline around Stordal with my young children, watching and documenting the effect nature has on us humans. What is the true color of the sky? Is it rayleigh scattering or can I explain it in simple terms? As my children grew older, this passion evolved into a deep-seated desire to capture the essence of their surroundings through art. After two years of education at Ytre Kunstfagskole in Ålesund, I now work in my own studio space in Stordal.

Reason 1: Expressing Creativity

For me, printmaking is not just a medium; it's a creative outlet. The versatility of printmaking allows me to experiment with various techniques, textures, and colors, enabling them to bring my artistic visions to life with unmatched expressiveness. Each print tells a story, capturing a unique moment in time bringing nature and a human body together, and reflecting my boundless creativity. Discovering the Magic of Stordal, nestled amidst the stunning Norwegian fjords, a place of enchanting beauty. The awe-inspiring fjords, with their crystal-clear waters and towering cliffs, have been a constant source of inspiration for artists for centuries. For me, having moved to this breathtaking environment in the year 2009,  was akin to having a personal muse at my doorstep, compared to the flat landscape in the Netherlands where I grew up.

Reason 2: Connection to Nature

The Norwegian fjords, with their ever-changing play of light and shadow, have a captivating effect on anyone who experiences them. I often speak about how the fjords' colors, from the deep blues of the water to the lush greens of the surrounding hills influence our human fysiology, that have influenced my choice of palettes in my printmaking. The intricate patterns formed by the interplay of light on the fjords' surface find their way onto my prints, creating pieces that evoke a sense of serenity and wonder. My art is a way of connecting with and sharing the beauty of the natural world I hold dear, but I like to provoke the audience ´s thoughts about their relationship to their local landscape too. The topic of Circadian Rhythm, your circadian clock has my special interest. The interaction between sleep, hormones like melatonine and the light of the day are often part of my artworks.

The Role of Permaculture in my Art

While Stordal's natural landscape is undoubtedly a significant source of inspiration for me, my passion extends to my permaculture garden. Despite the challenges posed by the Norwegian climate, I am well underway to transform my garden into a thriving ecosystem. This commitment to sustainability and harmony with nature is not only evident in my garden but also reflected in my artmaking. Particular plants, like flax or sunflower, serve as a source for experimenting with paper to my prints too. Incorporating elements of permaculture, such as the cyclical patterns of growth and decay, and the influence of sunlight into my prints, I create artwork that serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between humanity and the environment. The vibrant colors of my garden find their way into my prints and other artwork, adding depth and character to my creations.

Reason 3: Preserving Memories

Printmaking, for me, is more than just art; it's a means of preserving cherished memories. The prints serve as windows into their experiences, a way to document and immortalize the moments, places, and people that have left a mark on my life's journey.

Reason 4: Exploring Traditional Art Forms

My dedication to printmaking reflects my desire to explore and honor traditional art forms. I have embraced the age-old techniques and processes of printmaking, connecting with the art form's rich history while adding my unique contemporary twist. My foremost focus lies on the now rarely used technique called mezzotint. See my work here

Reason 5: Experimentation and Challenge

For me, printmaking is not just about artistic expression; it's also a journey of technical challenges and personal growth. I have embraced the intricate techniques and processes involved in printmaking, aiming for pushing the boundaries of what can be achieved in this medium. Each piece I create reflects not only my artistic vision but also my determination to conquer the challenges that printmaking presents. I do paint and draw too, often they are part of the process to printmaking, but can also be an artwork on their own. I like to add som sculpturing in clay to add to the mix too!

In the end

My printmaking art is a testament to the profound influence of my local surroundings. The Norwegian fjord landscape around Stordal, the permaculture garden, and personal motivations have shaped my artistic journey in profound ways. Through prints, I invite you to share in the wonder of nature, encouraging you to appreciate the beauty that surrounds us every day.

As I continue my artistic journey, I hope I will continue to amaze the world with stunning creations that will undoubtedly emerge from my deep connection to the natural world.

Please leave me a comment, I greatly appreciate any feedback!