- Grethe Kjøsnes
Norwegian mixed media artist Grethe Kjøsnes showcases innovative techniques that imitate natural elements, human interaction, and the upfront theme of overcoming life's hurdles through a positive outlook. Delicate textures, shape patterns, and vibrant colors describe natural phenomena within the idiom of Abstract Expressionism. Large scale canvases, often using acrylics as her base medium, she uses layering and shadows as a protagonist in her storytelling style.
Her figurative subjects are often depicted as tall silhouette abstractions of the human body, hinting at much more supernatural concepts. She uses a sense of movement through each figure, seemingly gliding through the canvas, taking on a much grander role within their natural environment. She is often looking within her immediate environment as a source of creative inspiration depicting the unique blue hues found in Norwegian waters, and traditional forms of connection and group celebrations. Kjøsnes' brush strokes are bold and delivered with intent. Each color is saturated and intense, coupled with the favored contrast in tones, and her pieces become very immersive. A sense of heightened energy permeates all facets of Kjøsnes' diverse portfolio, as her passion and empathetic nature focus on sharing her story of hope and faith through dark times.
“I come from a tiny place on the west coast of Norway in Sogn og Fjordane, and the nature around me has inspired me as an artist. I live close to the ocean and with high mountains around. I live in a place called Dalsfjorden, a little bit North for the well known Norwegian fjord called Sognefjorden. And the light of the sunsets really inspires me too! The ocean, mountains, and light and life among the west coast are in my heart and art!”