Interview
Karianne Weiby Koller
Karianne lives in Trondheim, Norway, and she has a deep passion for painting and photography. She is fascinated by nature, the sea, and animals - something that is often reflected in her artwork. As an artist, Karianne paints intuitively, allowing her images to emerge layer by layer. Nature and animals are her greatest inspiration, and through her paintings, she seeks to capture moods, energy, and the hidden connections between all living things.
What is your background and how did you start your journey in the art world?
“I began painting a few years ago, during a difficult period in life. What started as a way to cope and find peace, suddenly became a deeply meaningful creative journey. Painting became my therapy - a way to disconnect from the outside. Over time it evolved into something more, call it a passion. I don't have formal training, I paint from my heart and let my intuition flow.”
What inspires you?
“I find inspiration in nature, animals and human emotions. The quiet often unnoticed moments in life. for example when I am at the cabin by the sea, I listen to the soft sound of the waves lapping against the shore. When the sunlight sparkles on the water like nature's diamonds. A gentle breeze brushes my cheek- almost like a kiss. In those moments I feel a deep sense of humility and gratitude to the One who gave us all of this, and life itself. Being part of all that, that's where inspiration flows from.”
What themes do you pursue? Is there an underlying message in your work?
“I often explore themes such as inner strength, resilience, silence and the human connection to nature. Many of my paintings carry a symbolic or poetic undertone - like ‘guardians’ watching over something precious or solitary women bearing quiet burdens. The messages in my work is subtle but present. There is a strength in gentleness, beauty in the quiet, and hope in the unseen. One of my works, ‘The water bearer’ is an good example of this. The painting is accompanied by the following text: ‘At dusk she walks home, along a crooked and dusty path. A yoke rest heavy on her shoulders - but more than water comes with her. She carries memories and longing. Her journey is quiet- you barley notice her passing. She finds her strength; a gift given in love - a faith, a hope and a promise. This painting is to all who carry - for others or themselves.”
How would you describe your work?
“My work is often intuitive, poetic and emotionally driven. I work primarily with acrylics - it's the medium that best suits my temperament and my patience. I work in layers, trying to create atmosphere. Some of my paintings are realistic and figurative - others lean more towards abstraction. My goal is to create art that invites the viewer to fell, pause and reflect.”
Which artists influence you most?
“I am inspired by a mix of classical and contemporary artist I admire Johan Christian Dahl (the founder of Norwegian national painting), for the way he capture lights. His works feel timeless, and there is a quiet reverence in the way ha paints nature. I'm also inspired by Vebjørn Sand, his ability to tell stories through atmosphere and stillness. When it comes to animal portraits, Carla grace art has been a great inspirations. - one of my paintings ‘The cool guy’ is actually based on one of her tutorials.”
“My work is often intuitive, poetic and emotionally driven.”
What is your creative process like?
“Intuitive and emotional. I rarely plan in detail. I work in silence and often lose all sense of time.”
What is an artist’s role in society and how do you see that evolving?
“To offer a pause from everyday life - a moment to feel, reflect, or simply breathe.”
Have you had any noteworthy exhibitions you'd like to share?
“I just participated in a group exhibition in Trondheim, 15 and 16th March 2025 where I exhibited 39 paintings, and some paintings were sold. It is a powerful experience when people connect with my work.”
