Psalm Kivinen
Residing in the Snowy Mountains of Australia, but drawing inspiration from the world in my many travels I am very lucky to be able to pursue my passion about everything Art. I studied both Fine Art and Industrial Design in Denver, Colorado at Metropolitan State College of Denver, with some of the finest tutors. I was encouraged to delve into many different disciplines from drawing to metalsmithing. My primary majors were Drawing and Printmaking, but I also have a strong love of metalsmithing and photography, and studied them equally as well. My drawing and photography form a strong foundation for my painting, where I work with a goal of utilising good composition with dynamic colour and light to capture an open narrative for the viewer.
I also have a deep love of figurative art, utilising the body to weave a narrative of emotion. In this, I also study anatomy and medical art, both contemporary and historically. Art and science have had a long relationship together, and although we have so many modern means to capture images of the body and anatomy, there is a greater depth of humanity when the images are rendered by hand by an artist, no matter if it is in paint, graphite, or sculptural means. There is a long list of artists who have contributed to the medical sciences throughout time, and I hope to be part of continuing this tradition. My pursuit of studies in this has led to me to places such as London, Oxford, and Edinburgh so far.
Another aspect of art that I am absolutely passionate about is teaching. To me, not only is technique important, but art history and our relationship to art of the past with what we are creating today. I believe that art and artistic expression is universal; that every single one of us holds within a great talent to create any art we so desire, that it is not some elusive talent given only to a lucky few. I seek to encourage everyone I can to create without fear, anxiety, or stress, to find their own unique expression of their vision and emotion. I work with students of all ages and abilities, both learning for the first time, experimenting with new styles or mediums, or improving their own existing skill set.
I am currently working on some new work, exploring abstraction in various mediums from some of my photographic work, another project with conceptual analogue photography, and also finishing building my new studio. I am also setting up some new classes, and look forward to tutoring again soon. Keep an eye on the website for upcoming classes. As well as this, I am also the Art Steward for our regional community which allows me to support and encourage other local artists and young artists.