Artist talk with Erik Legernes
'Where is my pony?', 2021
Oilpastel and wax
54.5cm x 68cm
Tell us about yourself.
My name is Erik Legernes, I’m an artist living and studying in Norway. Painting is my main interest, working primarily with oil pastels and oil sticks.
Where did your passion for art begin?
In the beginning I built little houses and cabins in the woods, then 6 years ago I started painting, and it got hold of my life.
How would you describe your work to someone?
I would describe my work as stories and fragments of how I go through and experience life, told in my own secret language. My inner and outer life lay out without lies and not having to be anything special. Being able to tell anyone whatever you want in painting is real freedom.
'Keep on keeping on', 2021
Oilpastel and wax
58cm x 72cm
What are you currently working on?
I’m going back to work bigger and on canvas. The works of past year has mainly been on found cardboard, in an attempt to avoid my inner perfectionist. I’m ready to fight the deterrent canvas again.
When you start a new work or project, do you plan what you’re going to create or do you improvise?
I always improvise. When I find something on the surface I recognize within me, I start to plan how I’m going solve all the problems I’ve made.
'Pushing daisies', 2021
Oilstick and wax
54,5cm x 66,5cm
Can you highlight some of your influences and discuss how your influences have made an impact on you and your practice?
I have been following Francisco Mendes Moreira for a good while. He inspires me to stick with my universe and be bold in my expression. He’s work is an inspiration pill.
What are your plans for the remainder of this year?
I will continue with one foot in the real world and the other in my corner.
'You old and free', 2021
Oilstick and wax
63,5cm x 80cm