“I love challenges…”
Paul Zimmerman in conversation with Chatarina Salomonsson
Paul Zimmerman: How did you develop interest in art?
Chatarina Salomonsson: I am self-taught, and bought my 1st brush October -18. It only happened overnight, when I had never painted before in my life. I did not believe in myself. Self-confidence was trampled on. I have lived a tough and motley life in destructive conditions. Where the only thing for the day was to be able to continue, to survive, to become strong. I had a vision, a desire to succeed. So I found the strength as I got past the difficulties and slowly got up.
I became curious and became acquainted with the colors, technology and inspiration from my life that I could feel at home with.
PZ: What is the most challenging aspect of your work?
CS: I love challenges. To be able to grow with the task.
PZ: What is your artistic process? How do you create your paintings?
CS: February-19 I took the courage to try to paint women, strong women, found inspiration from the dance in my life. Continued my search with love and passion, as one wishes it to be. I paint in acrylic, for me it is a perfect medium, where I can really paint both abstract and finer. Love to paint in thick layers where the feeling I want slowly emerges and grabs the viewer. Then I can continue several more layers. It is life that is in all layers, my life.
PZ: How do you know when the piece is finished?
CS: If you ever finish a painting, I sometimes think to myself. Well, when the special feeling is there, then remember that I am ready, but it must come, it is breathtaking, tickles and gives a loving feeling. Much like when you see a child open his package with twinkling eyes at Christmas. It sparkles in your soul. Then, just then we are here.
PZ: Have your practice changed over time?
CS: Yes, absolutely, it changes with the task, with life, it is to develop.
PZ: What is art for you?
CS: art for me is, in your true sense. It’s good to be able to try and find motives, but when you put your own feeling there, the cheek you carry with you through life. The one you tell about in the board. The one that touches the viewer deeply. Where there is love, in real.
PZ: How would you describe yourself as an artist?
CS: I’m actually pretty shy of myself. But today I play theater, and find a huge joy in it. Has danced in competitions and done his own dance choreography, sewn clothes and done makeup, hair, yes everything. Then I disappear into this enchanting world, and it is a similar feeling to be able to create, feel the anticipation before a performance, in the new dress. Painting that feeling, but without a script, feels magical. Then it’s my brush I hold in my safe hand.
PZ: Which artists are you most influenced by?
CS: I have a very special artist I just love, Eva Helsén from Sweden, she paints in watercolor.
PZ: What are you working on now?
CS: Right now I have a partnership with Eviqe Estates in Cyprus, which sells fantastic apartments in a wonderful area called The Cove. They want my art as an investment. Participates in MOOD the Art of Today Magazine 20, which reaches art connoisseurs worldwide. There I am on 5 full pages. Also paints for upcoming exhibitions both nationally and internationally. Also I accept commissions.
PZ: How does the pandemic influence your work and sensibility?
CS: This pandemic of course closes opportunities to be able to exhibit, but it is being moved forward. I will be at the Art Expo, Pier 94 New York in April.
It is important to think ahead and be positive at the same time, to be careful. Then I can paint and create even more. The time is coming. It’s just a matter of taking advantage of your time here and now, reaching out and helping, and taking responsibility. Together we are strong.