Scan Magazine
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Artist of the Month |
Norway
art is largely affected by human relations and experiences, but the viewer is free to interpret something else from their point of view. I find that exciting,” she says. As a person, Hille sees herself as quite introverted. She needs a sense of calmness within – a characteristic she experiences reflected in her artworks. The need for calm is intervened by the noise and outer affection from the world, resulting in the various motifs Hille brings to life. “I wish for the viewer to experience calmness in my motifs, while also reminding them of the uncertain momentums that surround us in life, be it themes such as climate, a pandemic or political tensions,” says Hille. The painting Planet strongly references monuments of uncertainty. “Existential questions occupy me, reflected in my motifs with the ocean, universe and human beings. I am concerned about mental health and have been inspired by that in some of my works.” Credibility in layers When creating, Hille prefers to take time, and she tends to juggle several works at once. “My paintings often consist of infinite layers of colours in the base before I layer the surface. From a distance, the motifs might look quiet and harmonious. By looking closer, one can sense a well of colours in the base layers.” Layers add life to the works and draw parallels to how we function as human beings, she says. “Not everything is how it seems at first glance. The pictures be-
Silence.
come more credible and exciting as one detects the details. Many of those who have purchased my work have commented on the fact that they constantly notice new elements of the motif.” The handiwork and the process of creating are what drive Hille as an artist. She often works on voluminous surfaces that can withstand ravage. For equipment, she prefers to use a spatula or paintbrush. After adding a layer on top of another layer, she sands down the work to discover hidden gems within the layers underneath.
Closeness to the family and nature Hille grew up in Stavanger, a coastal town in the south-western part of Norway. She often finds herself longing for the raw, open freshness of the west coast and the North Sea. Countless days spent by the sea have resulted in her extensive use of blue. “The colour blue symbolises stability and peace within. Especially the painting Running to the Sea refers to the longing for closeness to the sea,” she says. In her current hometown, Oslo, Hille seeks inspiration on walks in the surrounding nature. She also finds the city crowds with unity and differences among the inhabitants equally fascinating, while simultaneously cherishing being able to retreat to her private studio and home. “I am constantly inspired by my family and must admit that I get the most energy and calm around my flock. To combine motherhood with working as an artist gives me both flexibility, togetherness with the family and more room for reflection,” says Hille.
Janne Løhre Hille. Hille pictured at Edvard Munch’s atelier in Ekely where she worked for four months. “I liked it there and undoubtedly got inspired by Munch’s colour palette, which is evident in the pictures I painted that winter,” she says.
Web: www.jlhille.no Instagram: @jannehille.art
March 2022
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Issue 140
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97