Project Overview: Residency at Air Frosterus, Kärsämäki, Finland, January-February 2023

In the winter months of January and February 2023, I embarked on a transformative residency at Air Frosterus in Kärsämäki, Finland. As a writer and watercolor artist, my focus was on delving into the intricate layers of Kärsämäki's history, folklore, and engaging deeply with the local community to craft a tale for my book series, "Nordic Tales." The resulting work, titled "Nordland/Northland," has been published in both Danish and English, accompanied by a series of watercolor illustrations.

Research and writing process: My days in Kärsämäki were dedicated to immersing myself in the local stories, traditions, and the unique winter landscapes of Finland. Conversations with locals became an invaluable source of inspiration, allowing me to weave the essence of Kärsämäki into the narrative. I also collaborated with a high school teacher, engaging with students in a session on my life as a traveling artist. The students were given the assignment to explore their grandparents' memories of Kärsämäki, and these stories became integral components of my tale.

Watercolor painting exploration: The captivating winter scenes of Kärsämäki inspired a series of watercolor paintings, capturing the serene beauty of the snow-covered landscapes and the warmth of community life. Each painting served as a visual companion to the written narrative, creating a harmonious blend of words and images that brought Kärsämäki to life.

Community engagement: Engaging with the community went beyond casual conversations. Collaborating with the local high school allowed me to bridge generational gaps, involving students in the storytelling process. The assignment given to students not only enriched my understanding of Kärsämäki's history but also contributed to the intergenerational dialogue within the community.

Publication and legacy: The resulting tale, "Nordland/Northland," now stands as a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Kärsämäki. Published in Danish and English, the book preserves the narratives shared by the locals and the visual allure of the watercolor paintings. It serves as a legacy of my time in Kärsämäki, capturing the essence of a winter sojourn in this Finnish town

Below you can enjoy a selection of the paintings from my stay in Kärsämäki. You can also find the paintings for the book illustrations here.