Sigurborg – Circle Foundation for the Arts

What themes does your work involve?

My paintings are mostly visual, forms and colours, no special themes. In the Artist´s books on the contrary, there is always a theme. Often something political that involves environmental matters, human rights and such matters.

Describe your creative process.

I work with a variety of media. When I paint, I usually do not have a clear picture of the outcome beforehand. I strive to make colours and forms come together in harmony. Occasionally this is a bit of a struggle.

Sometimes I feel I have a clear idea of the result I want to achieve, but during the process many changes take place and the end result is very often much different than what was originally planned. When painting I usually start out by sketching my ideas in pencil, which I enlarge into a bigger canvas. I alternate between oil and acrylic and am equally comfortable with both.

When I am producing Artist's books, my methods are completely different. Before I start I need to have a clearly defined idea with which to work with.

What influences your work? What inspires you? Why do you make art?

Life it self, the books I read, music, people, the colour of the country and so on.

What is good art? What makes a piece of art great?

When things are in harmony, and there has to be some tension or even conflict.

What is the role of the artist today?

I cannot imagine myself in any other occupation than that of an artist. It has most likely been my goal since I was a child.. It has indeed been a privilege to be able to combine my interest and profession, and should not be taken for granted even though we pursue an education in the arts. Therefore many artists are employed as teachers and instructors. In our social structure, I regard teaching art as very important not only to create art, but not least to appreciate art.