Obsessed with nature

At The Ode To we are always curious to learn more about creativity and artistry, so we asked the creative duo Kongstad Studio to share their thoughts on inspiration and art.

Can you tell us about the name of your series of artworks?

– Our series of artworks is called Human Nature. But in a literal way. Lately, we have been obsessed with nature and how we humans interact with it, both positively and negatively. Slowing down, being present and appreciating the things we sometimes take for granted are recurring themes in our paintings. If you remember to taste your chilies, you will be less likely to breathe fire when eating your dinner. But maybe, more importantly, you will remind your brain of what a chili is, where it came from and how it ended up right there in your kitchen.

What technique have you used?

– Oil pastel and acrylic on paper.

What inspired you to create the artworks you have made for The Ode To?

– It’s always hard to point at one specific thing, but inspiration from nature, climate change, presence and growth are very present in all of them.

What other artists do you admire?

– There are so many, but HuskMitNavn is one of our many heroes. His work is so relatable and can be enjoyed by almost anyone. Historically he has been very successful in using his art for good and has done a lot of public art, art in schools and art bringing awareness to climate- and refugee crises.

Can you tell us about your background and how you started your creative duo?

– We both grew up in Copenhagen and became a couple when we met in high school. We’ve always been involved in each other’s projects and have been dreaming of creating a life where work and leisure are more connected than in a traditional career. Our background in design was closely connected to art so it felt very natural to pursue this path in life connecting purpose, passion, work, and art. For the past year and a half, we've been on the road in Italy, creating our art from different regions.

How would you describe your art and aesthetics in three words?

– Presence, slow, joyous.


What we love about Kongstad Studio:

There’s a joyful expression, and a great eye for detail, in the art from Kongstad Studio that we simply can’t resist.