Meet Anna Valeska Nygren

Today we’d like to introduce you to Anna Valeska Nygren.

Every artist has a unique story. Can you briefly walk us through yours?
My journey began during my college years in the Midwest. I was studying to be a physical therapist with the mindset that it was a practical choice. I was a social, assertive individual and there was guaranteed stability within the healthcare field. But, in turn, I was consciously ignoring and suppressing a large part of myself. The creative, free-spirited unconventional Anna, which I’ve come to find out is my dominating personality traits. So, at the breaking point of that realization, I dropped out of college. And to say that this period of my life was challenging is the understatement of my 20’s. It was the decision that changed the trajectory of my life. It challenged the most deep-rooted relationships with my family and it tested the trust I had in myself.

Nonetheless, I chose to fall back on the fact that I knew I hadn’t been true to myself up to this point and that I could no longer ignore that. From that single decision, a wave of emotions came from every corner – concerned parents, a confused sister, and supportive friends. In this all-consuming whirlpool of emotions, I found the inspiration for painting. I was able to choose the colors and how they interacted without judgment (positive or negative). I was able to explore my frustrations and retreat into the one thing that stayed constant throughout my journey, me. Relationships have steadied and my creative career path is solidifying, yet I still find myself wrestling with feelings of vulnerability in being my truest self and a sense that I need to fight to defend my creativity.

Please tell us about your art.
I design graphics, make paintings, do photography and I’m dabbling in modeling. Graphics are done on my laptop, using Adobe Creative Suite. I do graphics for podcasts like Lou Diamond’s Thrive Loud and The Nice Guys on Business. Designing on a laptop allows me to brainstorm efficiently and mold ideas seamlessly. My paintings are predominantly acrylic on canvas and give me space where I don’t think, but feel my way through the artistic process. The time I spend painting is a time I get to sit down with myself and dive into my emotions – feeling no judgment. My photography is done with a Nikon D3400 and is in an experimental phase as is my modeling. I’m still learning how to use my camera! But what draws me to photography is the beauty of letting others see life through my eyes. As an artist, I’m always searching for that “click”, when I see a completed graphic, painting or edited photo that captures a bit of magic. I believe that’s what art is: a moment where imagination, emotion, and intention come together. What I hope people take away from my work is wild excitement, a sense of proud individuality and grit. I want people to walk away thinking, “I’ve got the ability and the courage to find out who I am and own it, fearlessly and respectfully.”

Choosing a creative or artistic path comes with many financial challenges. Any advice for those struggling to focus on their artwork due to financial concerns?
What makes an artist great isn’t having the latest technology or the most expensive paint, it’s the power and imagination the artist uses to deliver a message regardless of the medium. Laptops and art apps provide endless canvas space and a phone camera has become a powerful tool. So, my advice is to not get caught up in the newest gear but to focus on your craft with what you have.

How or where can people see your work? How can people support your work?
I just wrapped up an art installation, “The Dichotomy of the Human Experience”, at the Green New American Vegetarian Restaurant in Tempe and I’m currently looking for a venue for Fall 2018. My work will be back up at one of the Green’s locations in 2019. Follow me on Instagram to see my latest work and projects.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://the-kreativ-type.squarespace.com/
• Email: annalife2017@gmail.com
• Instagram: @thekreativtype
• Twitter: @thekreativtype
• Other: Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anna-nygren-00171b122/

Image Credit:
Headshot: Raina Virginia

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