United Kingdom (GBP)
Andie Ekström is one of this year’s participants in Pen Store Talents, a creative challenge where you, using eight selected pens and a predetermined surface, create an original piece without any other tools or shortcuts. This year’s contributions will also become part of the world’s longest art exhibition when thousands of works are displayed in the Stockholm underground.
Hi Andie! Tell us a bit about yourself and your creative work.
I come from the forests of Västergötland and now live in Stockholm. I’ve been doodling little characters all over the place my whole life. Every now and then I pick up my brushes to create something more thought through and “tasteful”, but the most fun is still drawing whatever comes to mind in the moment, the sillier the better.
What was your first thought when you saw the pens?
"Yes, pink!" I’m in a pink phase. It’s a colour that makes me happy and that I want to use for everything.
Did you have a favourite pen?
Stabilo Pen 68 Brush, an already great and classic pen that has become even better with a brush tip! It’s soft and comfortable to use and gives a very even finish. Plus, it happened to be pink.
How did you experience the challenge of creating with selected pens?
Difficult, but also a great creative push. You’re forced to try things that don’t feel obvious. My Pilot Frixion, usually used for writing and crosswords, really had to work hard to create large blue shadows, which turned out to work perfectly. The pens were more versatile than I expected.
What inspired the motif in your piece?
I spend a lot of time on the underground and observe all sorts of people there. It’s a place for both frustration and everyday joy. Everyone is in their own little bubble while still coexisting with others. The best moments are when a dog comes on board and settles under the seat opposite you. With my piece, I wanted to create a snapshot that captures the small scenes that unfold among commuters and their pets, which in this case turned out to be moles and beetles.
How does it feel to have your work displayed in the Stockholm underground?
I think the underground platform is an excellent place for art in general. It really should be the norm to cover every surface with artworks instead of the usual advertising posters. I’m looking forward to seeing all the other participants’ work.
What will you take with you from Pen Store Talents?
The whole process has been a lot of fun. Just receiving a package of surprise pens made me feel like a child on Christmas morning. Taking part in a challenge like this is a wonderful way to celebrate the joy of creating.
Andie Ekström
@dunderlarv
