Can you share a brief overview of your creative journey, from when you first started pursuing your creative career to where you are now?
I went to art school back in 2013. and have been pursuing my artistic career ever since.
The Work
The Tales
What inspired you to become an artist, and how did you decide to pursue it as a career?
It’s something I’ve always wanted to be and do.
What is the most rewarding aspect of being a creative person?
Flexible mind and a way of always finding a way.
What keeps you motivated and passionate about your craft?
At times, I struggle, as I cannot live by my art but have two additional jobs. However, doing art is vital to me and if I don’t do it for a while, I become severely stressed and anxious.
What advice would you give to young artists who are just starting out and considering a creative career?
Believe in what you want to say and express, don’t settle with imitation and following trends.
How important is it for artists to find their unique style or voice?
I think it’s what counts in art. If a person merely follows trends and imitates other artists, they are not really artists at all.
How did you discover and develop your own artistic identity?
In art school. I highly recommend getting some education. You can also be a self-taught artist, but your own style develops best in contact with others and other styles and influences.
Can you talk about the role of failure and perseverance in the life of an artist?
Failure; cracks, and mistakes are what make art interesting. As an artist, I never give up but rather try to respect and value failure, not only to learn about mistakes but also to see what’s in them and maybe turn them into successes. Some of my best works have first gone terribly wrong.
What are some misconceptions or myths about being an artist that you would like to debunk?
That we are sloppy bohemians who spend their days in the midst of paint fumes and then sell their art for four-figure amounts.
How do you navigate the art industry and find opportunities to showcase your work or collaborate with others?
I don’t really do that now, as all the exhibition opportunities etc. are very costly. I’m dreaming of a gallery of my own. I’m planning to invite my fellow artists to exhibit there.
What are some common challenges artists face in terms of recognition and financial stability, and how can they be addressed?
I wish I had the answer to the latter part. Where I’m located, we have very few artists who have “a name” and can make a living from their art. They have access to various grants. I’m not one of them.
How do you stay connected with other artists and the larger creative community?
Only via Instagram and through my art school connections
Can you share any tips for artists to market and promote their work effectively in today’s digital age?
If you know any tips, please let me know!
Are there any specific resources, workshops, or organisations you would recommend for young artists who want to further develop their skills and knowledge?
I’m located in Finland. I can only recommend Art School MAA where I went to.
How do you approach self-criticism and growth as an artist?
Some self-criticism is obviously healthy, but I try not to be overwhelmed by it. Personally, I’m not under any pressure as I’m not working on a grant but pay for my materials and everything I do by myself, so I can do whatever I want.
What strategies do you use to continually improve your craft?
I try to be exposed to the work of peers worldwide. Most importantly, though, I do art every single day. When you do it a lot, you can experiment more.
Have you ever experienced creative blocks or periods of low inspiration? If so, how did you overcome them?
Not really. There have been periods when I’ve felt that everything I do sucks. But fortunately they have not lasted very long. The worst creative blocks came after several refusals of grant and exhibition applications. They stopped when I quit applying for anything 😀
Do you believe it’s necessary to have a degree in art to succeed?
Well, the degree is not the thing, but like I said before, in order to develop your art, you need to come into some kind of contact with others. Otherwise, you’ll probably end up repeating some old pattern that will dry up shortly. Art schools are excellent incubators for new ideas, vital influence, and artistic development.
Is there anything else you would like to share with young artists aspiring to pursue a creative career?
Ars longa, vita brevis.
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