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Art is both a mirror and a door - a mirror that helps us understand ourselves and a door that opens to new perspectives. As Thomas Merton once wrote: ‘Art enables us to find ourselves and lose ourselves at the same time.’ In art, we can find peace, joy and meaning, but also explore the unknown and challenge our own understanding of the world. And creativity can provide a nice breather in a hectic everyday life and lower stress levels by providing an opportunity to go inside ourselves.
My name is Volodymyr Filipov and I am an artist, trainer and art historian with many years of experience. Through my courses, I want to share knowledge, techniques and inspiration so that you can develop your creative abilities and discover the wonderful possibilities of art.
My courses are designed for both beginners and experienced artists, and you can participate either in fixed groups or follow an individually tailored programme. Here you'll find an inclusive environment where you can experiment with different techniques and find your own unique form of expression.
1. Art in the details
This course is for those who love precision and want to explore microscopic details in art.
- What we do: We work with techniques such as frottage, drypoint, engraving, etching and linocut. Through exercises and projects, you'll learn to create graphic works with depth and detail.
- Who it's suitable for: Adults, regardless of previous experience.
- When: Wednesdays 18:00-20:00 + 1 hour free work period in the studio.
- Why attend: Learn new techniques, create unique artworks and enjoy an evening of creativity in an inspiring environment. You can join one evening or more, depending on your preference.
2. Posters, book covers and illustrations
Combining literature and visual art, this course is perfect for those who want to develop their creative skills through abstract expression.
- What we do: We create posters, book covers and illustrations inspired by literary texts. Through collage, drawing and other methods, we transform words into visual expressions.
- Who it's suitable for: Young people (13-19 years) and adults.
- When: Saturdays 13:00-15:00.
- Why attend: Discover how to transform literary images (not text) into visual artworks and learn how to put creative techniques into practice.
3. Drawing and painting
A classic course that takes you through basic and advanced techniques in drawing and painting.
- What we do: We work with still life, composition and portraiture, with a focus on classical techniques. You'll learn everything from basic drawing skills to more advanced painting techniques.
- Who it's suitable for: Young people (13-19 years) and adults.
- When:
- Day group: Fridays 15:00-17:00.
- Evening group: Fridays 18:00-20:00 + 1 hour free work period in the studio. First course evening xx January
- Why attend: Gain a solid understanding of drawing and painting, and develop your skills in a supportive and inspiring environment.
Art in the details:
- 1 course day: 500 NOK (including materials).
- 4 course days: 1500 NOK (including materials, with 25% discount).
- 8 course days: 2500 NOK (including materials and 37.5% discount).
Posters, book covers and illustrations:
- For adults: 400 NOK per course day (including materials).
- For youth: Free (100 NOK for materials).
Drawing and painting:
- Day group for adults: 400 NOK per course day (including materials).
- Evening group for adults: 500 NOK per course evening (including materials).
- For young people: Free (100 NOK for materials per course day).
I also offer courses by individual appointment for those who have a busy schedule or want a customised learning programme. Contact me for more information!
Location: Bergerveien 2, Fossekleiva Cultural Centre, 3075 Berger, 2nd floor (entrance from the courtyard). Unfortunately there is no lift.
Registration: Send an email to Volodymyr.Filippov@gmail.com or contact me via social media.
Payment: Via VIPPS 468 51 877 or Gift voucher.
Discover new creative horizons in an inspiring environment - I look forward to meeting you in the studio!
* Thomas Merton (1915-1968) - an American monk, writer, poet, theologian and social activist who had a profound influence on religious and philosophical thought in the 20th century.
Merton's life and work were characterised by a deep quest to understand both the inner and outer worlds. He combined a Western Christian tradition with an openness to Eastern spirituality, which made him a bridge builder between different cultures and ways of thinking. His texts are about faith, meditation, peace, social justice and man's relationship with himself and the world.
Why his quote is important for individual creativity:
The quote ‘Art allows us to simultaneously find ourselves and lose ourselves’ reflects the essence of creativity as a personal yet universal process. When we create, we open ourselves to the unknown, free ourselves from the limitations of our own identity and see the world with new eyes. This ‘losing oneself’ is not a negative experience, but a way of letting go of control and letting the creative flow lead us. At the same time, art helps us to find a deeper understanding of ourselves, our values and our place in the world.
For Merton, who combined mysticism with a practical focus on social justice, creativity was a spiritual act - a tool for reaching a greater truth both in oneself and in the community.
This quote reminds us that creativity is both an inward and outward journey, and that art can be a powerful tool for self-expression, reflection and growth.