What inspired you to pick up a brush and start painting?

I've been in marketing for over 15 years, working for industrial companies with no connection to art. But after a long working day, spending an hour on the metro, I would come home and paint just for myself. My curiosity led me to explore various topics – from landscapes to still life to fashion illustration. Yet, every time, I circled back to painting flowers, and these were the moments I found my peace of mind and a special connection to the art. I met my future husband, moved to Norway, and soon became a mother of two boys back-to-back. In a new life, my daily painting became my constant source of stability. I was painting nearly everyday and sharing my art on Instagram. The support and encouraging feedback I received helped me to keep pushing forward and I got my first clients who wanted to commission my illustrations.

When did your love of art start? Did you always want to be an artist?

I think I was always interested in painting since childhood. I was the one who painted school projects for our class, and I created numerous floral dresses for my paper dolls. I also learned a lot from my uncle, who was an artist. Back then, I never thought of taking painting seriously, let alone choosing it as a career. When I went to university to study Sociology, I didn’t touch paints for years. If someone had told 15-year-old me that I would become an artist, painting flowers as my main job, I would have never believed it.

What would be your advice for new artists just starting up?

Be kind to yourself and your art. Respect your pace, your style, and your achievements—they are yours and uniquely yours. Progress takes time, and every failed attempt is a step toward better results. Explore different mediums, materials, and themes. With time, you’ll discover your own voice and artistic style!

What is the best tip you were told early in your career?

Once you master the fundamentals and the classical approach to painting, you’ll gain far more freedom to develop your own style. By studying the basics of classical drawing and painting, you train your hand and refine your vision, allowing you to explore various techniques and express yourself with confidence.

How has social media helped your career?

Most of my students and clients find me on Instagram and YouTube. Both platforms have brought significant interest to my book and courses. The artist community is vast and diverse, and I’m grateful to be able to inspire and support some artists.

Where do you get your inspiration from?

Most of my inspiration I get in Norwegian gardens, forests and landscapes and during travelling.

What is your favourite Daler-Rowney product and why?

I really enjoy using Daler-Rowney Aquafine Watercolour paints because of their smooth, delicate texture. They are easy to pick up with a brush, offer clear and vibrant colours, and blend beautifully to create versatile stunning mixes.

What is a technique that you haven't tried yet that you would love to try & why?

Painting with inks and liquid watercolours. I like their saturation and how they bleed and flow and I think they will fit perfectly to the layered transparent technique I love so much.

Who would you like to do a commission for and why?

I enjoy taking commissions for surface pattern design, apparel, homeware, and home décor products because I love seeing my paintings come to life on everyday items and clothing.

What has been your favourite commission to date and why?

Painting exotic flowers and hummingbirds for Heidi Carey (homeware).

What has been your favourite exhibition/art trade fair that you have exhibited at and why?

SABA Botanical Exhibition. I learned a lot from painting traditional botanical illustrations, including drawing, values, layering, and attention to detail. This practice improved my technique a lot and helped me attract my first clients.