Interview
Robert Selfors
From 1987 to 1990, Robert Selfors studied graphic techniques, aesthetics design, art history and visual ID. He has been awarded Photographer of the Year in the Photography Magazine. He was the Gold winner of “Utsnitt-award” photographers’ annual photo award and the winner of “Pangstart” Entrepreneurship-Award arranged by Innovation Norway. He has had many solo exhibitions. In February 2025 he was chosen among 20 other artists around the world, selected to exhibit at the prestigious Galleri Gaudi in Madrid.
What is your background and how did you start your journey in the art world?
“What is happening to me? Once again, I find myself coming back from a business trip, stepping into the heart of the capital — and something twists in my stomach. It’s the fifth time in less than two years. A ‘inner’ voice is trying to tell me something important. And with all the encounters I've had, I am certain of one thing: That voice speaks the truth. This time, I choose to listen. It’s about being present — truly present — in my own life. It’s autumn. All my belongings are on a truck heading north — back to the land of the northern lights and where the Viking settled. The mountains of Lofoten are breathtaking. So is the entire region — still a hidden gem to many. After 25 years working in the capital, I’m taking a creative sabbatical — a year of rediscovery. With nothing but a tent, a sleeping bag, a trusty camera, and a heart wide open, I am on a quest for hidden gems in the enchanting landscapes of my youth. A return to harmony since I was a little boy, I’ve always sought nature. It's where I find completeness — where silence whispers, where each sense dances in pursuit of hidden gems and enchanting moments. This is where I feel grounded, balanced, and at peace. This is where I create today, I am embracing my dream. Every lesson learned — from my creative studies, my time as a graphic designer, entrepreneur, and visual storyteller — now converges into my art.”
What does your work aim to say? Does it comment on any current social or political issues?
“Rather than positioning my work within a strict genre or movement, I gravitate toward the interplay between representation and abstraction. My pieces hover at the intersection of the recognizable and the intuitive, often capturing the mood of a moment rather than its literal form. This stylistic liminality—hovering between the seen and the felt - allows me to construct a distinctive visual language, one that refuses to box in interpretation. Titles are rarely assigned to my artworks; instead, I invite viewers to bring their own stories and emotions to the canvas, encouraging a highly personal engagement with each piece.”
Do you plan your work in advance, or is it improvisation?
“In the depths of childhood, I once sought perfection in photorealistic drawings. Now, my artistic quest leads me away from this rigid expression towards the vast emotional landscapes waiting to be painted. While a photograph may spark inspiration, I consciously steer clear of using it as a roadmap for my creations. Embracing a free and intuitive approach, I break free from the constraints of realism to explore the boundless possibilities of my imagination.”
“Rather than positioning my work within a strict genre or movement, I gravitate toward the interplay between representation and abstraction.”
Are there any art world trends you are following?
“The arctic landscape serves as both subject and co-author in my practice. Whether through painting, drawing, or mixed-media compositions, my works channel the overwhelming scale, texture, and light of the far north. I do not replicate the terrain; rather, I translate its essence. Despite my respect for technique, I resist becoming anchored to one material or method. Acrylic and oil paints offer varied possibilities, each suited to different moments of expression. In mixed-media pieces, I fuse elements from photography, sketching, and painting to evoke layered experiences. This cross-pollination of disciplines reflects my desire to keep curiosity alive—to never let the childlike impulse to explore be dulled by routine. During my education, I became familiar with transfer methods and graphic techniques that continue to influence his visual language. Each medium I engage with becomes a tool for unearthing emotion, exploring ideas, and staying grounded in the continuous act of discovery.”
What process, materials and techniques do you use to create your artwork?
“I already informed about the theme, so please consider to adjust the text of delete this question.”
What does your art mean to you?
“Creating art is a profound gift in life and my ultimate passion. Since childhood, I have been aware of my abilities, which have granted me immense strength throughout my journey. How fortunate I am to wake up each morning knowing I can create something meaningful for others. To create is pure therapy and freedom that completes me.”
What’s your favourite artwork and why?
“Edward Munch is one of the greatest artists in our decade - a visionary who skillfully conveyed his emotions and the impact of life's events through his work. Dive into the world of this great artist and explore the depths of human experience like never before.”
Have you had any noteworthy exhibitions you'd like to share?
“In May 2025, Munich / Galleri Gaudi represented us with 6 Artworks at MUC - one of the largest ART Fairs in Europe. In July 2025, in Norway I will be among 20 other artists represented at the large Art-Event at Beitostølen in July. I am looking forward to meet art-lovers and other artists to exchange experiences as an artist. As a result of the audience's positive response, the owner of the prestigious Galleri Gaudi gave us the opportunity to present a solo exhibition in the fall of 2025 during October. The entire gallery will be filled with works from the project ‘Walking on Arctic water.’ The gallery will be the first to present WOAW 2.0. A solo exhibition, film and reflections! ‘Walking on Arctic water’ is about an emotional journey, where doors to a new world have revealed themselves in all their lushness and complexity. WOAW has given us a greater awareness. We are all part of nature. We are part of the cycle of life like water. We are part of the moment, the transformation and the same vulnerability that water undergoes on its cyclical journey. Through the project, we have increasingly come to accept that Mother Earth is ‘bleeding.’ The icebergs that are calving out of the glaciers at an ever-increasing pace are our time’s symbols of man-made climate change. Are the ice and the four seasons soon part of a bygone era, as a result of greed, desire and lack of respect for Mother Earth.”
Website: www.arcticmoods.org
Instagram: @art_by_arcticmoods
