It didn’t take long for the inner talent to show its true colours, however, and he soon applied to Bergen academy of art and design with material he produced at the course. His application was accepted, and the rest is history. “When I first started my mind was just set on it, really”. Acrylic and traditional techniques was his go-to in the early artist days, but he soon found his own style which primarily involves drawing, watercolour painting and a combination of the two. The pen stroke is particularly important in his works.

Bringing art to everyday life

Simen’s name has become immensely popular on the art scene, and he has several exhibitions and commissions to look back at. The works have been presented in galleries, as murals, at festivals and in culture centres. Simen has done a lot of commission work for cultural institutions through the years, but has also become popular amongst local bands in want of unique album covers. He has also illustrated a board game and numerous posters for various events, in addition to working on his own ideas and projects. Although his works are anything but simple, his style is easy to like and brings art down to a level that is easily understood and appreciated by many. There have been a great number of exciting projects since Simen put the first stroke on the canvas in 2009, and one of his favourites is a fairly recent one. In August 2020, he completed a 2 x 1,5 meter large painting of Torgallmenningen in Bergen, which is packed with the most astonishing details. “It was sold immediately”, Simen tells us, “larger formats are very popular, and I really enjoy working with it”.

Inspired by the past and the present

“I read all the time, and what I draw and paint is usually inspired by what I read”. His interest in history and literature is reflected in his works, which often includes historical and literary themes and details. He also reveals that he’s often inspired by current affairs, and likes to merge the different worlds in his works. “Mythological and historical references can be to shed light on the present time”, he explains.

Although he doesn’t consider himself an overly political artist, he does think it’s important to use his art to promote certain cases. One example is when he created a series of works inspired by the refugee crisis, set in a surreal and metaphorical world. “I want to convey something recognisable and relevant, yet poetic and emotionally charged. It’s all about achieving that balance”. He considers himself a rather flexible artist, and is not worried about offending people with his works. “It’s important to let go of the urge to please everyone, you have to stand up for what you believe in”, Simen concludes.