Interview: Morten Saether
Luca Curci talks with Morten Saether, winner of ARTIST OF THE MONTH – NOVEMBER 2021

Morten Saether is a freelance photographer and painter. He favors using mixed digital photography techniques to produce his work. “Photography is often the essence of my Art. I also love traditional collages. So often my work consists of different photos put together in layers and presented in a new way, mostly abstract but sometimes with elements you can recognize.” Alongside his self-taught artistic practice, Morten has enjoyed an extensive professional career as an Art Director and Graphic Designer. Morten’s photography and paintings have been featured in exhibitions in Collioure/France, Barcelona/Spain, Fredrikstad, Horten and Oslo/Norway. Morten is keen to continue to exhibit his work throughout Europe and is focusing on Paris and Barcelona as his target markets.

Luca Curci – What is art for you?
Morten Saether – Art for me started as an extension of my work as an Art Director in the communication business. Throughout my career, I have been interested in photography. In my job, I have been exposed to a variety of professional photographers in Norway, so I have learned a great deal from them. I had to make my own way as I had no formal education. This is why I started experimenting with mixed photography techniques. But I have been interested in drawing, painting and architecture for as long as I remember. Art can really be inspiring and change the way you look at things.

LC – What are you currently working on?
MS – For me, my motives follow what’s on my camera. It’s in my bag wherever I go. I am always on the lookout for interesting and graphic elements along the way. Many of the items I find are things that no one sees or wants (found objects) I can also sometimes just take a photo of a pattern or a shadow on a wall too. In addition to my digital work, I also have a small studio where I paint. I plan an expo maybe in a couple of years when I’m ready.

LC – How is being an artist nowadays?
MS – It’s very demanding. Everything is slower these days. And with the growing infection in the country right now, it’s even more challenging. The only positive thing is that you have more than enough time to be for yourself – something I, fortunately, have no problem with.

LC – Do you think ITSLIQUID GROUP can represent an opportunity for artists?
MS – Absolutely. You are a platform for contemporary art, so the essence I think is to be able to use you as a connection hub for the art community.

LC – Did you enjoy cooperating with us?
MS – Up till now it’s been all-digital, so hopefully I can attend a physical expo sometime in the future.