Artist in conversation: Lojen Art
“true beauty is in gruesomeness”
Louise Andréason, known in the art world as Lojen Art, is an evocative force whose creative expressions began to take shape during her high school years. Her inaugural piece, a daring exploration of themes deemed too provocative, was met with intense scrutiny and ultimately, censure by the school inspectorate. This incident, far from discouraging her, ignited a passion to pursue art that resonates on a profound emotional level and sparks controversy.
Today, she focuses on producing pieces that make people feel deeply, challenging viewers with every artwork she creates. In her art, Louise seeks to bridge the gap between comfort and controversy. Through Lojen Art, Louise invites viewers into a space where discomfort is not only expected but embraced, challenging them to confront the issues that truly matter. Her work stands as a bold invitation to examine our beliefs, question societal norms, and engage with the uncomfortable truths that shape our world.
What initially inspired you to become an artist, and how did you develop your unique style?
During my art course in high school, we were given the task of painting a painting inspired by a known Swedish artist, that then would be displayed at the school. During the exhibition, the principal contacted me that my work had to be taken down as it was seen as inappropriate and caused negative reactions. Something lit up in me then and there, as I thought (and still think) that art should do just that - evoke emotions.
In terms of subject matter, what themes or motifs do you frequently explore in your work, and what draws you to these topics?
I enjoy exploring subjects that sharply segregate people, politics, religion, social issues. During my upbringing I’ve unconsciously adapted to Swedish culture and what you can and can't talk about. I’ve always been questioning why the topics that are truly interesting and matter, are so taboo.
We are very comfortable and sensitive in the western world, and I love to make people uncomfortable.
Could you describe a specific piece of yours that holds significant personal meaning, and what inspired it?
''Du nya, du fria’’ / ’’You new, you free’’ is one of my personal favorite pieces.
It depicts a gun decorated with the pattern of a traditional Swedish landmark. The title is a word play on Sweden's national anthem whose original lyrics is ’’You old, you free’’. The development that has taken place in Swedish society inspired this work.
Are there specific themes or subjects that consistently appear in your work?
Gruesome, criminal, scandalous combined with purity, nostalgia, delicacy is a theme appearing in my work. Childlike things with the harsh reality of adulthood.
I've always found that true beauty is in gruesomeness. We all think of ourselves as kids at heart, but are too adapted and conscious to act on it, which is also why I think that for example drugs are so addictive. The only way to enter a childlike mind again.
How do you stay connected with other artists and keep up with new developments and trends in the art world?
I have no desire to connect with other artists or keep up with trends in the art world. I prefer to keep to myself and feel like the idea of following trends takes a toll on originality .
How do you incorporate feedback from critics and audiences into your artistic practice, and how do you balance this feedback with your own artistic intuition?
I appreciate both feedback and death threats. I don't need to balance criticism since I critique myself constantly and harsher than anyone.
How do you stay motivated and inspired despite any setbacks or creative blocks you may encounter?
As my audience grows, I encounter creative blocks more frequently. The art process itself has partially come to represent mental survival for me, so somehow I have managed to get through setbacks up to this point. However, I'm not sure that that’s always gonna be the case.
What role does emotion play in your creative process, and how do you aim to evoke specific feelings or reactions from those who view your drawings?
Since art is a form of entertainment, emotions play a major role.
Evoking specific emotions in people is one of my main goals. What is so fascinating about art is that one work can evoke opposite emotions depending on the viewer. Therefore, I think it is important not to explain my interpretation of the work, but to let the audience do it individually on their own.
How do you feel about exhibiting your artworks with The Holy Art Gallery?
I am excited about exhibiting at The Holy Art Gallery. I'm curious how the works will be percieved in another country.
