I spent the day yesterday at a market here in Oslo. After the intensity of all the Christmas markets I had done, I was looking forward to reimagining my "shop", simplifying it and focusing on my Collage Character prints. They are always a conversation starter and I love watching how people take their time to look at each one and how they eventually stop on the one that speaks most directly to them. Each customer has a different story and finding that character collage that speaks to them fills me with so much happiness.
I first started creating characters in 2011. I was living in Busan, South Korea and was so inspired by so much. I cannot say exactly why I started making these, but the variety and quality of art I was exposed to in Korea blew my mind. This period in my life was monumental and is the foundation of my art practice today. This lovely guy was part of a big group exhibition. I sold all but this one - which happened to be my favorite.
Fast forward to 2025 and these characters have evolved and have a different look but maybe a bit of the same melancholy. The emotion these guys have is never planned out. I rarely start with a concrete plan. Their personalities evolve when the watercolor paint is applied to the face, eyes and lips and then they start to speak to me and from there the message evolves.
The messages come from a range of places. Could be something I have experienced in my own life, but also from what other's experience that some how resonate with me or from things I have read or come across. The general vibe, though, is one of resilience and an understanding that we only have this one life and, I believe, one has to be intentional on how you want to live it, what gives you joy, peace, connection and meaning and do more of that.
"Build your own ship", for me, comes from a place of knowing that it was up to me to find a way to build a life that I was happy with. I had the power to make good choices for myself and those I love. I have everything within me to create a beautiful life. Shit happens and it takes time to heal and there are times I have felt just awful and hopeless, but I have also always had an inner voice that has reassured me of my value, strength and abilities. She whispers to me "you got this, Sarah". I hope this character can inspire your inner voice to be a supportive friend rather than a bitter critic.
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