Annamaria Johansson has always been a painter at heart, with a particular focus on capturing the essence of people and portraits in her artwork. With a loyal client base spanning the globe, she offers unique insights into her artistic journey and the strategies behind her successful art business as a painter. Throughout this two-part series, we delve into her ideas, philosophies, concepts, and approaches that shape her distinctive artistic vision.

What inspired you to start painting?

I have always loved to draw and paint. I did a lot of it as a child, so it wasn’t new to me. However, as I grew older, I was taught that painting was just a hobby, and it slowly faded from my life. I continued my studies and ended up with two bachelor’s degrees: Nursing and Business Administration.

I believe strongly in the value of lifelong learning. You grow as you learn, so I have always had a broad curiosity about many things. I worked in various companies and disciplines, and things were going well. But I felt like something was missing. I was searching for something more. Looking back, I realize that my creativity was stifled and not flowing freely. I think this is a common experience for many adults in today’s society. We forget that we are inherently creative beings shaping our reality.

My journey as an artist and painter began in late 2019. I felt increasingly inspired to draw. It was a powerful, intuitive feeling that I couldn’t ignore. So, I decided to purchase painting materials and give it a try. After completing my first oil painting, I knew this was it—it was my gift and my passion. I believe that as humans, we are capable of a lot, and painting is a skill I want to develop to the fullest, even if it’s not the only talent I possess.

For years, I had ignored my talent for painting. Perhaps it was hidden for a reason and revealed to me at the right time. Sometimes life takes you on a journey to help you evolve and gain different experiences, preparing you for a brighter future.

My life up to this point has been a journey of preparation and training, guiding me toward living my purpose to the fullest, even though it wasn’t what I initially expected. Reflecting back, I can see how each experience has been building towards my future. Every event, both positive and negative, serves as a brick in the foundation of our souls. Our response to these events is a choice, a matter of awareness.

When I paint, I always feel a deep desire to communicate something to the viewer. I believe there’s always more to the story than what meets the eye. My goal is to help the viewer understand that there’s something beneath the surface of visual reality. Art, while a tangible object, has the power to evoke emotions, memories, and thoughts that exist beyond the physical realm.

The events occurring in the unseen, invisible aspects of our lives are often more real than we acknowledge. Everything that materializes begins in the unseen. I create from this realm of the unseen, not from nothingness, because it has always existed—it simply hasn’t taken a material form yet.

What kinds of materials do you use to create your artworks?

I consider myself a versatile artist, capable of working with various materials. Currently, I’ve chosen to focus on oil paintings, utilizing oil colors, canvases, solvents, and brushes.

From which countries do your clients originate, and what is their age range?

My clients hail from all corners of the globe, spanning from Costa Rica to Sweden. As for age, it varies widely, ranging from 20 years old and beyond.

What is the average price range for your artworks?

The price of my artworks varies depending on factors such as size and subject matter. Generally, my midsize paintings are priced around €5000, while larger artworks and portraits sell for €10,000 or more.

What sets your art apart?

Every individual is inherently unique; there is only one of each of us. Just as no two fingerprints are identical, no two pieces of artwork are the same. I reject the notion of comparison because each artist has a distinct voice. My focus primarily revolves around portraying people and portraits because I find human beings endlessly fascinating. Each person holds significance, and I believe many individuals today grapple with concealing, manipulating, or distorting their true selves to fit societal expectations. This fear of rejection, tendency toward people-pleasing, and pursuit of status and wealth deeply intrigue me. My art captures the emotions of the moment while also delving into the intricate layers of the stories behind each expression. I depict a diverse array of individuals, including children, as each person’s narrative is worth exploring.

I’ve had the opportunity to travel to numerous places, including Vietnam, Malaysia, Australia, the United States, Zanzibar, and various countries in Europe, among others. These travels have exposed me to a plethora of impressions and allowed me to encounter people with diverse lives. Through my paintings, I aim to shift perspectives, emphasizing the interconnectedness of humanity. We are all unique individuals yet are meant to be united.

Our identities and experiences have the potential to construct a better world. There’s ample space for every individual to thrive, as each of us possesses creative power. It’s crucial for everyone to harness this power responsibly. Rather than looking outwardly for inspiration, we should first seek to understand ourselves. Otherwise, we might be tempted to imitate others simply because we admire their qualities.

My artwork also reflects the zeitgeist and the societal transitions we’re undergoing.

Where do you draw inspiration for your new paintings?

I believe we’re currently living in a culture that’s adrift. Frankly, I’m not content with the state of affairs. There’s a lot of suffering around us, much of which could be alleviated through individual and collective action. Our thinking has been conditioned for too long, and the prevailing narrative about life and humanity may not necessarily serve our best interests. Witnessing people pursue superficial desires instead of deeper meaning motivates me to paint for a lifetime.

How do you attract new buyers?

Networking plays a significant role, and it’s an ongoing endeavor for me. By showcasing my artworks on various platforms, I connect with new audiences. For me, it’s about cultivating relationships with my clients and exceeding their expectations. Ultimately, it’s all about fostering strong connections.

What challenges or risks have you encountered as an artist?

I’ve struggled with self-doubt and overthinking, both of which can hinder the creative process. Along my journey, I’ve come to realize that the biggest risks lie in compromising my authenticity and altering my intentions to fit in. In today’s world, it’s easy to lose sight of ourselves amidst the influx of information and distractions.

What’s your perspective on the evolving art market?

With the rise of digitalization, creativity is becoming increasingly valued as a means of survival and evolution. Acceptance of digital art is on the rise, and technological advancements have broadened our definition of art. The digitalization of art witnessed significant growth in 2020, and this trend is likely to continue. Cryptocurrencies and the decentralization of money will further accelerate the art experience. Traditional forms of art, such as paintings, will continue to thrive alongside digital art, contributing to the overall growth of the creative industry.

Exclusive Interview with a Multi-Artist Annamaria Johansson – Part 2

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