The Others
Meet The Others: Marit Geraldine Bostad
The Game Changers. The Rule Breakers. The Innovators. Discover some of the fantastic emerging talent showcasing their work at The Other Art Fair.
Norwegian artist Marit Geraldine Bostad’s large-scale abstract paintings have largely emotional and thoughtful processes behind them. Describing her practice as a kind of therapy and a way for her mind to switch off, Marit Geraldine’s feelings about her work are made clear by the lasting affect her paintings have on her audience. Marit Geraldine sat down with us at The Other Art Fair to talk about her work.
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How would you describe your artwork?
Intuitive, rich in colour, passionate. I believe my abstract paintings have a nerve. Most often I work with some sort of contrasts in life – that gives movement, dialogue, a connection. A story to be continued by the viewer.
What does making art mean to you?
I once forced myself to answer that question. In a search for something bigger I deliberately locked away my paint, my canvases, all my material. How would it be not to have permission to paint for 6 months?
The first weeks were unbearable. I felt weird, sick, unbalanced. After the immediate first period of longing back, everyday life absorbed me. I became distant. Blurred. A good friend even asked me if I was depressed. I stayed in there, 6 months became 7. I was afraid and insecure – going back to my white canvases was hard. How did I do this? And where did my desire go? Once I pushed myself to get going, by force – my world collapsed. Into something true, meaningful and strong. The gratefulness, the nerve – the speed!
I have never experienced myself more productive, some might say manic. I produced so many artworks in a short period. Everything was easy, and I recognised this place that I had been to so many times before.
I see many common links to other parts of live in this project as well. Withdrawal from what you desire the most, can give you a new, more true version of yourself. I learned that without painting I am a shadow of myself…
How did you get started making art?
If you asked my family and friends – they will probably say early age. But even though I have always being drawing and painting a lot – I must say that it really started when I started my career as an art director. With a very hectic, demanding and commercial schedule everyday – I found myself hiding away with my paintings in weekends, at nights, in holidays… It became a place where I could charge my batteries and experience pure joy – without pushing new consumer items out in the world.
What is it like to be a part of The Other Art Fair?
To be part of The Other Art Fair is fantastic. Hard work and long hours – but totally unique! First of all, the fair is curated so well, and everything is very professional, from design of walls to every practical detail. The team is there for you if you have any questions. Their campaign and network is impressive – as an artist you can meet so many interesting people during these 4 days. Galleries, collectors, advisers and people seriously interested in arts. Of course – you have to be able to present yourself, be interested in meeting people. That is what I love about this fair. The unique interaction and mix – that makes this weekend so alive and pulsing.
What is your favourite piece for sale on your SA profile and why?
“Shy but Not” is one of my favourite paintings. First of all, personally – it reminds me of a great day. But more importantly, it is based in something crucial in life. We run so fast, our days are hectic and full of routines. How often do we actually see what surrounds us? How often do we feel grateful for all the good we have.
The painting is delicate and tender – as the feeling of appreciation and gratefulness. But at the same time strong, as beauty can be. I am so happy about capturing the duality. There is something interesting to work with, the story can go on.
