In the face of burnout and the pressures of freelance graphic design, Krister Flodin embarked on a transformative journey to embrace his true calling as a full-time artist. Through “Project Freedom,” Krister and his partner downsized their lives, freeing themselves from financial stress and paving the way for a new chapter filled with creativity and storytelling. Join us as we explore Krister’s inspiring transition, the challenges he overcame, and the artistic vision that drives his work today.
1. What inspired you to transition from freelance graphic design to becoming a full-time artist?
It was actually burnout that pushed me to make the change. I went through rehabilitation from January to March and realized I didn’t want to return to freelancing in graphic design. I’ve always felt destined to be a fine artist but never had the courage to take the leap. During rehabilitation, my partner and I discussed downsizing our life to alleviate financial stress. By April, we had already put our apartment up for sale and started looking for a smaller one. This move freed up funds to make my art journey possible, and we call it “Project Freedom.”
2. Can you share a pivotal moment or experience that solidified your decision to pursue art full-time?
The pivotal moment came in September, after we moved to the smaller apartment. I had a series of dreams that were quite clear, urging me to jump into the unknown and burn all bridges. So, I did.
3. How did the challenges of burnout influence your artistic style and approach?
I really want to tell the story of burnout through my art—the exhaustion that can’t be relieved by rest, the brain that doesn’t function, and the nerves in complete chaos. I’m trying to bring these themes into my paintings. Right now, I’m working on a piece depicting a very tired woman who can’t find rest and wants to turn away from the world.
4. What were some of the biggest hurdles you faced during this transition, and how did you overcome them?
One major hurdle is financial. I have funds to last until about June next year, but beyond that, I’m uncertain. Another challenge is self-doubt, but I’m not too concerned about it. I’m at an age where failure doesn’t seem as daunting anymore.
5. How has your background in graphic design influenced your artwork today?
My background in graphic design has trained me in composition and cutting out unnecessary elements. I have a genuine understanding of visual communication, which I think many artists lack. Being an illustrator and graphic designer is like being a handyman—you have to convey the message effectively within budget constraints, which teaches you to be direct and efficient.
6. What advice would you give to others considering a similar career shift?
Try to give yourself some financial breathing room. Sell your car (I did) and move to a smaller apartment. This gives you more freedom. I also believe that passion is the best driving force.
7. How do you balance creativity with the business side of running Flodin Artworks?
I usually spend the first hour at the studio handling emails and administrative tasks, like paying bills. I dedicate one day every other week to bookkeeping. And, of course, I have you at Sintra to help with this and much more.
8. What role does storytelling play in your art, and how do you incorporate it into your pieces?
Storytelling is a big part of my art. I often start a painting with a story that needs to be expressed. Sometimes, the story evolves as the painting progresses. Even in my more intuitive paintings, which start almost abstract, a story eventually emerges.
9. Can you describe a typical day in your life as a full-time artist?
I wake up without an alarm clock, usually to the sound of my partner making coffee—she’s more of a morning person than I am. After breakfast, I bike to the studio if the weather is nice; otherwise, I take the subway. My studio is part of a collective with about 90 studios and 70 artists, each with their own space. Mine is about 30 square meters. I start by checking emails and doing some office work. Then, I take a moment to sit in my lounge chair, close my eyes, and breathe. Once grounded, I begin painting, mixing it with canvas preparation and sketching. After a lunch break in our communal lunchroom, where I enjoy chatting with other artists, I continue painting until I’m tired. Due to the burnout, I tire easily and rest often in my lounge chair throughout the day.
10. What are your future aspirations for Flodin Artworks and your personal artistic journey?
My current goal is to keep on painting and take the day as it comes. Just see what the future brings.
hello@flodinartworks.com
+46 701 470 121
Flodin Works AB
