Artists We Love: Spotlight on Mie Olise Kjærgaard
Mie Olise Kjærgaard, a celebrated Danish artist, has been an integral part of our design vision for over a decade. Since graduating from Central St. Martins in London in 2007, Olise has established herself as a formidable presence in the art world, known for her evocative, large-scale paintings that delve into the relationship between architectural forms and human experiences.
Her work has consistently enriched our interiors, offering more than just aesthetic appeal; it creates environments that are immersive and narrative-driven, where art and design harmoniously blend.
Her artistic journey has been one we’ve followed closely. Over time, Olise has ventured deeper into complex themes, particularly in her most recent series, Muses Having Fun and Disobedient Muses, which examines womanhood through vibrant, thought-provoking pieces. This collection, filled with energy and symbolism, reflects the strength, joy, and resilience of women, adding new layers of depth to the spaces it inhabits.Olise’s recent works carry strong historical references, portraying suffragettes and other women who broke free from societal expectations. The Muses series includes depictions of women tearing off corsets to embrace freedom—whether riding bicycles, playing tennis, or engaging in music. In contrast, she also presents fantastical scenes of girls or witches embarking on wild adventures, fearlessly riding dangerous animals, living bold lives full of autonomy and passion. These women are no mere spectators; they are the subjects of their own lives, fully experiencing the world with confidence and vigor.
The historical and imaginative layers in Olise’s art add a richness to the spaces we design, encouraging conversation and introspection. Her work invites people to reflect not just on the roles of women in the past, but also on their evolving roles in the present. This depth transforms her paintings into more than just decorative elements—they become powerful focal points that enhance the narrative within a room.One of the most remarkable aspects of Olise’s work is her masterful use of color.
Her muted pastel palettes evoke both serenity and intensity, making them a perfect fit for a wide range of design projects. These soft, nuanced hues bring a sense of calm while also providing visual interest and depth, allowing her work to blend effortlessly into different styles of interiors.
Whether in contemporary spaces or more traditional settings, her color choices complement existing design elements while still standing out as a focal point.We particularly admire her painterly strokes and the expansive scale of her canvases, which command attention without overwhelming the room.
Olise’s fluid brushwork breathes life into each piece, giving them an almost organic energy.
The large format of her paintings is perfect for filling substantial spaces, such as high-ceilinged entryways or grand living rooms. The combination of her soft color palette and bold scale results in art that feels alive and dynamic, creating a transformative effect in any room.
Incorporating large-scale art can be a challenge, but Olise’s work strikes an ideal balance between making a statement and maintaining subtlety
. Her canvases, often several feet in width and height, bring a sense of immersion to a space, drawing the eye and grounding the design. Her pastel tones and flowing lines keep the pieces from becoming overpowering, allowing them to enhance the room without dominating it. This balance is why we frequently turn to Olise’s work in projects that require a blend of dramatic and refined elements.
Since her early works first captured our attention, Olise has grown as an artist, continually exploring new themes and ideas. Her latest project,
Muses Having Fun
, demonstrates her ability to delve into societal and personal themes while maintaining the strong visual style that defines her work. Her exploration of womanhood adds a fresh, contemporary perspective to our interiors, allowing us to integrate art that speaks to broader cultural conversations about identity, gender, and empowerment.
This is particularly relevant in today’s world, where the role of women is constantly evolving, and Olise captures this dynamic beautifully.
Overall, Mie Olise’s work is a cornerstone of many of our projects, shaping the environments we create with its powerful narratives and timeless beauty. Her ability to weave together historical themes, bold storytelling, and delicate color palettes makes her work an ideal match for our design philosophy. Through her depictions of adventurous women and imaginative landscapes, Olise’s paintings add character, depth, and a sense of the unexpected to our interiors.
Her art transcends mere decoration, transforming spaces into immersive experiences that resonate on both aesthetic and intellectual levels.
We’re excited to continue featuring her work in future projects, knowing that each piece brings a unique story and energy to the spaces we design.
