Transcript and Key Points from my Conversation with Håkon Haug Paulsen

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Key Points

• Living in the Moment
  Håkon emphasizes the importance of “Memento Vivere” (Remember to Live) as a reminder to stay present and seize the day, highlighting the increasing difficulty of doing so in today’s distraction-filled world.
  
• Entrepreneurial Insights
  • Starting a business requires understanding the market, presenting yourself effectively, and differentiating from established brands.
  • Entrepreneurship involves continuous learning, adapting to new skills, and pivoting when initial plans don’t work out as expected.
    
• Value of Challenges
  • Personal growth comes from stepping out of one’s comfort zone. Håkon advocates for embracing challenges as they push individuals to reach their potential.
    
• Overcoming Adversity
  • Personal setbacks, like relationship breakdowns, can lead to periods of isolation and negativity, but the support of friends and engaging in new activities can help recovery.
  • Reflection on past experiences, even painful ones, can be invaluable for personal development.
    
• Creativity and Art
  • Art serves as a medium for personal expression and mental health. Håkon found art to be therapeutic, especially during lockdown periods.
  • Artistic inspiration can come from anywhere, emphasizing the importance of being open to new experiences and ideas.
    
• Artistic Process
  • Art involves experimenting with different techniques and styles, not being afraid to try new things, and continuously learning from one’s creations.
  • There’s value in visualizing art, using personal experiences and memories to guide artistic expression.
    
• Authenticity in Art
  • Authenticity in art is crucial; creating for oneself rather than for market appeal preserves the integrity of the artistic expression.
    
• Nature’s Role in Life
  • Nature provides peace and mindfulness, helping to clear the mind and foster creativity and mental health.
    
• Definition of Success
  • Success is redefined as personal happiness, rather than material or societal achievements. Håkon values waking up happy as the ultimate measure of success.
    
• Social Interaction and Growth
  • Engaging in conversations not to win, but to grow, teaches the importance of choosing battles and promoting mutual learning and understanding.
    
• Lifestyle Choices
  • Health and exercise have evolved from physical vanity to mental health maintenance and quality of life improvement.
    
• Advice for Aspiring Artists
  • Start with what you have, focus on enjoyment over stress, and use art as a means of exploration and fun, not just for commercial success.
    
• Technology in Art
  • AI and digital tools can be part of the creative process, serving as tools for inspiration and development rather than replacements for human creativity.

These learnings offer insights into living a fulfilling life, the entrepreneurial spirit, the role of art in personal and societal contexts, and adapting to modern tools like AI in creative fields.

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Transcript

Intro

“The main thing about what I’m making is always something positive, like the vibrant colors. I want to bring a good feeling to the ones who are looking at my art. Lift their spirits.“

Joachim’s Intro of the Guest

Today’s guest is Håkon Haug Paulsen.

He is known to many as the artist HWK. He was born and raised in Sandnes, where he lives on the country side and has his atelier.s

Creativity has always been flowing through his veins. Already at the age of 10, he won a national drawing competition in connection with the Olympics in Lillehammer, where he had his drawing printed as a postage stamp in one million editions! It was at this stage, he knew that art was going to have a key role in his life.

He studied Drawing, Form and Color for 3 years. Continued with art, media and communication at OsloMet, and has worked for 10 years as an art teacher.

In 2015, he co-founded FITINK, a brand for urban wear, which he was involved in for about 3.5 years. Having many interests and passions, Håkon has also worked part time as a firefighter and a personal trainer for many years.

With his versatile background and experience in art, ranging from clothing design, 3D design and street art. He has an easily recognizable style with strong colors, pop art inspired, urban and beautiful contrasts in his art. By expressing himself through his art style, he wants to create wonder and positive emotions in his audience. People can check out some of his work at the shopping mall Kvadrat, Bergen Storsenter and Magic Hotel Korskirken.

…and now dear friends, my conversation with Håkon Haug Paulsen.

The Podcast

[edited for clarity and brevity]

Joachim: Welcome to the Pod!

Håkon: Thanks for having me.

Joachim: It’s a pleasure. Having known you for a while, I know that the phrase Memento Vivere has a special meaning to you. Tell us about that.

Håkon: I don’t know if I would say special. It’s a tattoo I have on my chest. One of my first tattoos. [It] must be like 20 years ago. I wanted something cool. Something in Latin. But, of course I can get behind the phrase. It’s a reminder of life. Seize the day, and remember to stay in the moment, which we often forget. It’s been like a pillar through my life.

Joachim: I definitely feel that you’re the kind of person who manages to stay in the moment very often.

Håkon: I try to, yeah.

Joachim: I think that’s probably something a lot of people aspire to these days, through meditation and mindfulness, etc. Definitely a key part of our society today given all the distractions with the cell phones…

Håkon: It’s getting more and more important as well. Especially [considering] social media and all these other distractions we get in our society. To plug out, and remember to stay in the moment. Not always chasing the gold, or the next thing. That’s as always been important, but getting more and more important for me the older I get. Remember to appreciate the moments.

Joachim: You’ve also been the kind of person, who’s been quite aware of your passions, and what you’re into. You’ve been able to follow your passions, and in 2015, for instance, you co-founded FitInk an Urban Wear brand. You were involved there for about three and a half years. Maybe you can tell us about that entrepreneurial journey. How it started, the different pivots along the way and maybe some of the the key things you learned from that journey.

Håkon: Where to start. Like many other people, I had a dream of starting my own brand, and this was an opportunity for me. I linked up with an old friend [that] I hadn’t seen for a couple of years, because of where I was. I had a life in Australia along with education. I came back to Stavanger, and I met him through work. He pitched me this idea of a clothing company. I was like: “Okay, let’s see what you have to say.” It sounded interesting, and he pitched me the name FitInk. It all started because I met him when I was working at SATS/Elixia as a personal trainer. It started with the intention of making sportswear with integrated tech. So, we set the bar pretty high. With [the corresponding] costs and everything. [We] started looking towards China, and contacted different brands [to] see what they [would be] able to do for us.

[However,] with the tech and everything you have to have a lot of investors. We got some samples. Some tights and training gear, but we ended up pivoting. Going from sportswear to being a street wear brand. That was also more [in tune with who] we were as [people]. The culture. The music. We were into that style. The journey started there.

We made a business plan, of course. [There was] a lot of learning experiences during that time. I was building web pages, [and] had to learn new skills from the beginning. I was still working as a teacher as [my regular] full-time job. All the extra hours [went into] basically sitting in front of a computer working, planning meetings and my partner, Christian, was out sourcing for investors. That was the beginning.

In partnership with Christian, I was designing clothes. We developed a team. We ended up with a store in Pedersgata (one of the main streets in Stavanger city center). We customized sneakers. The first in Norway to do that. [We] started collaborating with some people in the music industry and had a good thing going for a while. A lot of fun, and a lot of learnings along the way.

Joachim: You even made a music video at at some point in time…

Håkon: Yeah, we linked up with some musicians from Oslo. But, due to some disagreements, we couldn’t release the music video.

Joachim: Oh, really..?

Håkon: So, it stopped because of that. Yeah, I cannot go into details, but there were some disagreements between the people involved. It was fun project. I was really looking forward to the video as well. After we were done, we had to cancel. Unfortunately, we couldn’t release it, but [it was a] great learning experience.

Joachim: I guess building a brand from scratch, understanding the market, understanding how to present yourself on digital surfaces, etc. I will imagine that there’s quite a lot of learnings from that you might have incorporated later on…

Håkon: Yeah, for sure. Like you’re saying, understanding the market, how to present yourself as a brand… Looking back now, it’s a pretty big goal to start a new brand [alongside] all these other [established] brands. You need to compete [not only in terms of] prices, [but] how to stand out between all these others providers of street wear. It basically adds up to what makes us special (value proposition and differentiation). What makes us different? Why should people choose us instead of Nike, Adidas or Reebok? There’s a lot of huge established brands out there.

Customizing sneakers was like a kicker for us. We got some attention. I have to mention (give a shoutout to) “Toas” and “Nico” that we work with as well. They were great at customizing and designing shoes from scratch. [However,] it takes a lot of hours sitting [there] painting [the sneakers,] and then you have to sell the shoes for a price [that covers the cost, and] the customer must be willing to pay that price. A lot of work and a lot learning experiences.

I’ve definitely been bringing these experiences with me later in life, when going solo and starting my art projects. [I] used the knowledge to try to get my art, or my brand so to say, out there.

Joachim: I can imagine that [it] must have been valuable to be able to draw on those early experiences.

Håkon: For sure.

Joachim: One more thing from the FitInk days [before we move on]. One of the key slogans from that period of time, was “Challenge Yourself”. What does that signify, and why is that important?

Håkon: It has to do with growth. For me it’s always about stepping out of your comfort zone. Give yourself a challenge. [It may] sound like cliché, but still it’s words to live by I think. Nothing grows inside the comfort zone. You need to go out and experience. Push your limits to [to have a chance at] reaching your full potential. Don’t be afraid to try new things. Basically be a “Yes”-person. I think life will give you gifts back if you challenge yourself, and push your limits. If you don’t do it, the answer is already no, either way. So, you have nothing to loose.

Joachim: Speaking of challenges, what has been the biggest challenge you have faced in your life and how did you overcome it?

Håkon: There’s been personal stuff with family, but I won’t go into it right now, because of [the] people involved. It’s been hard. Things I’ve been through personally with relationships thinking they were going to last. Then, you have, I don’t want to call it a breakdown, but when life shifts from one direction that you think you’re on. Thinking “this is the way”. You see your path in front of you, and suddenly it’s a big change. That’s when the challenge comes.

I sat down. Maybe I started drinking a little bit too much. Isolated myself, basically. For a period I was sitting in an apartment, feeling sorry for myself. Basically, I did all the things I know you shouldn’t do. By isolating myself from friends, and just wanted to be alone. Didn’t talk to anybody about my problems, or anything. Until I did… and of course you and other friends were looking out for me. Taking time to take that extra phone call. [Supporting me in] getting back on track.

When I see that in perspective, or looking back, it’s all learn experiences. Life will hit you in the face sometimes, and it’s all about how you get back up. But, without friends I don’t know if I would have gotten back up as quick as I did. Probably [still] sitting there… You never know. But, that’s when you see who your real friends are. Who really cares.

Life took me in a different direction than I thought. I couldn’t be happier today, because that’s what made me end up where I am at now.

Joachim: Absolutely. Yeah, it’s often very difficult to see what can come out of something while you’re in the middle of it.

Håkon: Exactly! Then it’s important to reflect. Think [about] the situation, and try to look forward. [The] stupidest thing you can do is [to] isolate [yourself]. I think the best thing is to get out. Talk to people, and get new experiences. The worst thing you can do is sit with your thoughts and you go in circles with your thoughts, so to speak. You’re not going anywhere because there’s no new input or anything to make you move forward.

Joachim: Great learning.
Speaking of [new input and] creativity, and your current work. I think as far as I can tell, creativity has always been a large part of your life. Art has played a major role for you, but a different intensity levels. I’d love for you to tell us about how the pendulum of art has been swinging back and forth for you throughout the years.

Håkon: When I was like 18-19, around that, I had some educational of courses in art school and I started painting. People were [asking whether I] could paint, or make [the likes of the] Hulk or [other] cartoon characters. [I] did it for a while, and needed the money, but it bored the shit out of me. It’s [really] just like copying, and not [using my own imagination], but [rather] replicating characters that’s already been made. I got tired and stopped doing commissioned work.

In between that, I ended up, as we talked about, being part of establishing FitInk and got a lot of my creative [energy out through that avenue. Designing clothes, etc. So, I stopped painting and drawing for many many years.

[I] starting again after the second period of Corona (Covid-19), so about 3-4 years ago, if I remember it correctly. Because I work as a teacher, [sitting at] the home office. Isolated like everyone else. When you’re sitting [at] home and don’t get out, [you start] feeling like you’re not worth anything or [are actually accomplishing] anything [worthwhile/valuable]. I didn’t feel valued. I needed to get out and do something productive.

Joachim: Something [that felt] meaningful.

Håkon: Yeah, for yourself. If you’re at the [school/office] one day, and you have been doing some work and get home for dinner, you [tend to] feel like you’ve contributed to society. [Whereas], when you’re [just] sitting home, day after day, doing the same… Art became like a savior to me [in terms of] mental health. I made a little studio in my garage. [I] started painting there. It’s just been a [continuous] creative process since [that] actually. A learning experience as well. Something I really love to do, and first of all for myself. The zone I’m getting into when I’m painting or drawing. That’s when I’m really in the moment, like we talked about earlier. You don’t think about anything else. The state of flow, so to speak. You can get there through all kind of different activities. I feel really great when [I’m] in the state of flow. In the moment. Art is a gateway for me to get there.

Joachim: That sounds fantastic!

Håkon: I feel lucky. I found it.

Joachim: You found it. You found your avenue.

Håkon: What works for me of course.

Joachim: That’s wonderful. I think a lot of people these days [feel a] lack [of] meaning in life, as you referred to earlier. They’re trying to figure out what that would mean for them, and a lot of people struggle as a by product of that. Struggling with getting into their flow. So, I think it’s wonderful [that] you’ve found your outlet.

Håkon: Yeah, I feel lucky that I found it. I don’t think it’s necessarily easy [to find], because [you] definitely have to get out of your comfort zone to try new things. Maybe that is the first step, but I don’t know the answer to what would be a state of flow for [anybody] else, or [how to] stay in the moment. [It] could be [anything] from reading a book, to enjoy cooking a meal. [It] doesn’t have to be anything big. It’s about plugging out, I think. Finding your sweet spot, or state of flow. I found it through art. That’s my escape.

Joachim: As far as I can tell, you’ve been exploring also within art itself. You’ve tried several different artistic styles in your paintings. You’ve done some sculptures as well. I’m wondering what characterizes the different styles that you’ve tried [as you see it], and how would you describe the different styles that incorporate your art.

Håkon: I don’t really think about it as different styles, because it all comes from me and my head. I get what you’re saying, [since] the expression is different, but as you can see in basically all my [paintings] it’s much of the same colors. I can get an idea from just listening to a song or walking by a house with special colors. You never know where could get inspiration from.

I have this book laying on my night table, so [that] I [can] write down my thoughts. If not, I [wouldn’t be able to] go to sleep. I need to do that. I’m afraid I’m going to forget my ideas the next day. I’ve done that, [only to regret it the next day]. “Why didn’t I write it down yesterday? I can’t remember what it was, but it must have been something good.” But, it’s not always good, of course. Maybe [about] 10% of what I write down, I turn into art.

[Typically], heavily influenced [by the] 80-90s. You can see a lot of neon colors, and childhood memories [in the] characters that I make.

I’ve never been afraid to try out new techniques, or new ways of painting. When I look back now at where I started [about] 3 years ago, I feel [that] I’ve learned a lot, and found (like you said) my style. [I’m] always trying new stuff to express myself through art.

Joachim: I can imagine [that] the more you get into it, the more you hone your own style. You try different things, and sort of find your inner voice, as a lot of the authors say when after writing several pieces. They find their inner voice, maybe you’re finding your inner style.

Håkon: When I look back now at what I was very pleased with three years ago, I feel that it looks like shit. But people still like it though. You’re your worst critic. The most important thing for me when I’m painting, is [to] get my idea out. I want [to materialize it], and when I’m happy with the painting I’m sort of done with it. Let’s move on. What’s next?! I have more ideas I want to develop and get out there. It’s part of the process as well…

Joachim: Speaking of your artistic expression. I’m also curious [about], in what way you would like people to recognize your art. Is there certain features or hallmarks about your art that you would like a keen eye to be able to like pick up.

Håkon: The 5-10 last paintings I made [there’s a certain] color scheme. The kind of purple, blue and yellow. It’s the neon vibe. I think you will see it’s painting from HWK, because of the style [in terms of] colors. I use mixed media.

It’s up to the people who looks at [it]. I just paint like I do and how I want to do it. I’m a big fan of Rick Ruben. He (Rick Rubin) talks about remembering that what you’re producing or making creatively, is for yourself. Don’t try to [think]: “What can I paint now to sell? What would the people that are coming to an exhibition like?” Because then you’re losing the value, and losing…

Joachim: Authenticity.

Håkon: I think authenticity as well. Then you’re just producing a product. You’re not doing it for yourself.

Joachim: It becomes a product, rather than art.

Håkon: Yeah, you could have thoughts about this fox (pointing at the painting between us), in a different way than me, or somebody else. That’s what I like about art as well. But, the main thing about what I’m making is [that] it’s always something positive. The vibrant colors. I want to bring a good feeling to the ones who are looking at my art, that make them happy. They can stand there and look at it and have good feelings.

Joachim: Lift their spirits.

Håkon: Lift their spirits kind of way, totally.

Joachim: We touched on this a little bit earlier in the conversation, but I want to dig a little bit deeper. We all find inspiration in a lot of different places, and I believe that at least one of the styles that you’ve explored have been inspired by an artist friend of you, Pryl. Who would you say inspires you the most, and why? You can take this question both in regards to art and life, or just one of them. Up to you.

Håkon: I like that you brought it up. Pryl, that’s where I started my journey. I was invited to a dinner I didn’t know who was going to turn up. We met at a friend’s house. Pryl, or Kenneth, was one of the people showing up at the dinner. We had a great time there. Lots of good conversations and we talked about art, and found out that we should work together on a project. We made a a picture together of the “Kræsj Pink” ice cream. It was pretty successful, and we ended up selling the original to DiplomIS, and made some prints.

Joachim: That’s a great story in [and of] itself.

Håkon: Yeah, we had a good trip to Oslo. [We] got to meet with… We just called him the president of ice cream. We got some free ice cream, and a great trip with some experiences.

That’s where my second phase of my art journey started. It was when I met Kenneth (the artist Pryl) and got inspiration from him. The way we were able to make art together as well. That’s the first time I started drawing with pen. That was because Kenneth inspired me to try that out. Now I found my style and incorporated some of his style. Just for myself. For learning how to use pen, and to get my expression on a piece of paper. So, thanks Kenneth for making me learn to draw cool drawings using pen.

From there I have been going bigger and bigger with paintings. I love to go as big as I can, and express myself with colors.

For me music and art is basically the same. [They’re] linked together, because both things are made to create feelings. From my perspective, art makes you feel a thing, [and] a song can make you feel a thing. [I] always [get] inspiration from music. But it can [also come from anything] from a poster… It’s often art, or nature as well.

I’m a spiritual person. [I] enjoy walks in nature and exploring that side of life as well. You never know. I can get inspiration [form anywhere. It just pops up [in my mind].

Joachim: Maybe we can double-click on that, and talk a little bit more about what nature means to you.

Håkon: Yeah, let’s use the word mindfulness. (Nature) It’s where find peace. It’s been a while, but every Friday after work I used to pack a little backpack. I live pretty close to some mountains, [and beautiful] nature. Even [if] it’s just a little hour walking through the trees, and up on a mountain. Just sit there with a cup of coffee, and empty my mind. Maybe reflect on the day and just try to be present in the moment. It’s very important to find peace and have a quiet moment around me, because as a teacher there’s a lot of noise all the time. I need to quiet it down. Also, to maybe tune in to some other frequencies. When I sit there in my own head space, thoughts and ideas can pop up. Everything about nature is just fantastic. But for mental health, it’s best thing.

Joachim: I find peaceful and quiet moments in nature very refreshing. It sort of clears my mind. So, I can I very much relate to that feeling.

Coming back a little bit to your artwork.
You’ve done a lot of solo work. We talked a little bit about collaborations. You’ve also done some work on commission. What comes to mind as one of the most fun or memorable moments so far along your journey. Maybe some stories [you could share].

Håkon: The ice cream story with Kenneth. That was the start. We were really excited and hyped to to get our paintings out there. We were talking together about not having any expectations of sales. I’ve tried to bring [that] with me through the whole process. Don’t try to think about the sale aspect of it. With Kenneth, it’s always been a pleasure. We’ve had a lot of collaborations. Always making some old school art. Often inspired by gaming. Like the old Nintendo. A couple of weeks ago, we made Bubble Bubble. I don’t know if you remember.

Joachim: I remember. I played that on Game Boy.

Håkon: Exactly. For me and Kenneth, it’s the conversation, the time and the fun we have together is the most important thing. If a product comes out of it, it’s just a bonus.

Commission work. I got a call from an old acquaintance of mine. “Do you want to come and make a mural for us? We’re starting up a new concert arena, and we would like something on our wall.” I had never done that before, but I was thinking: “Yeah, why not? I think I’ll be able to do that.” We had a meeting walking around checking out the arena, [while] getting some inputs from Espen (Espen Knoph, the founder and CEO of the Utopia Festival and Board Member of Fiskepiren). I started to develop an idea, and contacted “Toas”.

I haven’t talked to him in a couple of years. We lost contact, or went different ways after the FitInk project. I knew he had skills, so I asked him if he wanted to come on the project with me. I needed help anyway as it’s a huge wall. 6×4 meters. Stencils had to be cut. I made a sketch and had an idea for the art that we were going to put up on the wall. We went to work and made a spaceman sitting on a planet fishing. It’s called Fiskepiren, and I incorporated some of their history. It’s concerts there, so made a fish with DJ headset, and created kind of a spacey, music, neon glowing feel to it. It was great fun making that one.

That was my first big project and I’m happy it went the way it did.

Joachim: What a great way to challenge yourself, and expend your repertoire.

Håkon: Exactly! Yeah, [the] next one was a mural at Kvadrat [shopping mall]. I was there for one night. My wife joined me for that one. [I] needed some help. Also there, they had some thoughts and I made it in my style, of course. It was like 2×4 meters, [and I] pretty much freestyled [the] mural with one stencil. It’s a person with sunglasses. It’s a big one as well.

Joachim: It came out around Easter this year, I think.

Håkon: [A] great learning experience as well.

Joachim: One of the pieces you’ve done that also stands out in my mind is this mixtape piece.

Håkon: That was a collaboration with Kenneth. The cassette is a cool object, and the memories behind it.

Joachim: There’s a fun thing with it, where there’s a QR code where you…

Håkon: Yeah, I forgot about that. We put in a QR-code [in the painting]. If you scan it with your cell phone, you get a playlist with six or eight songs. I don’t remember, but we were thinking about the A and the B-side of the [cassette]. [We] couldn’t make more songs. It had to fit into a cassette. [That’s the] vibe we were going for as well. [The painting] is turquoise and purple, [and] the cassette is floating in space. I think we labeled it “My love.” We were thinking about a mixtape [that] you made for a girl you liked, or a special person.

Joachim: Maybe my memory doesn’t serve me well on this one, but I seem to recall that there was one painting you sold to an American rapper…

Håkon: That was early on, when I started… I made a picture of a rapper called RiFF RAFF. I think it was his photographer who contacted me through Instagram. He was curious about the picture. He liked it. I think it’s because RiFF RAFF’s image is [in the] 80-90s style. [The] same color scheme. [He] was interested in the picture. I didn’t sell it. I said you can have this one, for sure. For me it was just great to get it shipped out to RiFF RAFF. It just felt like an honor being contacted by someone that huge.

Joachim: I can imagine.

Håkon: It’s just random and coincidences that will get you there. It was a couple of years ago, but getting this in the start [of], let’s call it your “career” or whatever you want to call it. The collaboration with Kenneth, and getting it sold to DiplomIS, who made the original ice cream. I think we were a bit lucky as well, because they re-launched it (the Kræsj Pink ice cream) actually the [same] year [that] we made the painting, without us knowing. It’s just coincidences.

In the RiFF RAFF [painting], I was trying a technique called floating paint. You mix up this medium and the paint just float around on the canvas. YouTube it! Went over with some markers and paint. Tried new styles and made RiFF RAFF with some sparkly glitter and colors, and getting that spark [at] the start.

Joachim: …and some recognition

Håkon: Yeah, recognition. That’s the word I was looking for. It just keeps you motivated. Like everyone else, sometimes you’re really motivated and your motivation could [be] lacking sometimes. But, since I started, I always get like a little build-up…

Joachim: a boost

Håkon: at the time I needed it. So far it’s been a really fun journey, and it still is. I really enjoy it. It’s almost [become] a lifestyle, because tidy house is not in our vocabulary. There’s paint, canvases and stuff around the house all the time. I had the garage, but my wife got a motorcycle, and I got one too. So, no more space in the garage.

Joachim: So, now it’s spilled into the house..?

Håkon: No, can’t paint and spray in the garage anymore.

Joachim: This is a great segue into talking more about your process, and how you approach a new painting or a new sculpture. I would imagine, or you could tell us maybe, if the process changes with the format. Like if it’s a mural, then maybe it’s a different process than is if it’s a painting, or a sculpture… Maybe you could speak to that a little bit?

Håkon: [The] process [is] of course different from [a] painting to a mural, because then you have made stencils. I always start with the cans and prepping the canvas first. Then I start with cans [to] making the background with the colors.

I have this kind of thing, [where] I can close my eyes and visualize colors in my head. The color scheme of the painting. So, I already know where I want the colors. I could show you a little bit on this one (pointing to the painting of the fox, between us).

On this one, I knew the size and everything I wanted, so I just used the pencil [to] mark up the outlines. The fox. The nose, and ears. I sprayed up the background with cans, and then I also sprayed just freestyle. I knew [that] this [is where I want it to] be white. It’s going to be more orange here. So, just [I went] really fast spraying up a base, and then I paint it by hand. I use acrylics, so under there [it] would probably be some blue paint. Then I have painted other layers over.

Joachim: So, you go sort of layer by layer..?

Håkon: Yeah, that’s it. Layer by layer. Always. Because I want depth in my paintings.

Joachim: Do you cover up the parts of the painting that are not part of [the current] layer? I’m not sure how to word it, but do you use tape, or similar?

Håkon: No, I don’t do it. With stencils, [it’s different] because then you have to cover everything that you don’t want to spray. Then you remove the stencil, and the objects will appear. But, here I just freestyle the edges. If there’s a [small] mistake [somewhere], I don’t [necessarily] think [that] others would notice. The art could be rough in the lines somewhere. I’m painting a fox (in this case), it’s got fur [which is rough in itself].

It’s pretty much in my head. I can see it when I close my eyes. That’s when I get ideas as well.

Joachim: You visualize it.

Håkon: Yesh, I visualize it.

Joachim: In terms of equipment… You have paint brushes. Do you use [for instance] other pieces of equipment [such as] the wooden end of the paintbrush, or some other [objects]?

Håkon: In the latest one, [that] I made for this exhibition tomorrow, [I] tried to add something new. I like neon colors, but now I wanted it to glow like a neon sign. So, in this one I have used cans, airbrush and a lot of posca, acrylics markers. I sort of dab them on, and use my finger [to] smooth it out to get this shadowy, glowy effect. I experiment and try out new stuff. Like you said, I could easily just flip around the [paintbrush] and use the other side as well. Whatever is laying on the table. [It could] be a piece of paper, to get some structure in [the painting]. Whatever feels right for the expression I want to make in the painting.

Joachim: I remember some previous paintings, where you had fluorescent colors, or glow in the dark [that], so you could use a blacklight to see a different view of the painting. A different perspective of it.

Håkon: Yeah, exactly. It’s just that I haven’t put out the blacklight videos lately. But, if you use blacklight, there are fluorescent colors that will pop out in every single one.

Joachim: I really like that because it adds another dimension to the painting. You can enjoy it in different settings.

Håkon: Yeah, I love the expression it gets with the blacklight. It’s just that not everybody have a blacklight at home, so they won’t get that feeling. In the start, I was putting out videos showing it with and without the blacklight. I think I’m going to start showing it again.

Joachim: Personally I think it’s really cool. When it’s dark, and suddenly it’s a totally different feel to the picture. People will learn more about what went into [each painting], and what you can get out of it.

Håkon: That’s a good point.

Joachim: Maybe you should even sell the picture along with a blacklight.

Håkon: Yeah, trust me, the thought has gone through my mind. I actually started building wooden frames for the bigger canvases as well. So, maybe now is the [right] time to start incorporating some blacklights…

Joachim: …and building it into the frame!

Håkon: Yeah, I thought about it. That would be cool! I waited a couple of years to learn how to cut the frames in a 45° angle. I did it wrongly, so many times. But, now I’ve bought the right equipment, and I have learned to do it. So, maybe I’m able to take it a step further now, and incorporate blacklight.

Joachim: It will be really cool.

Håkon: I’m going to do it sooner or later. Everything needs to be tried out, and tested.

Joachim: I look forward to that! Then you’ll have the painting, the frame and the lighting, [and] everything becomes a part of a bigger piece.

Håkon: Yeah, it’s more like a piece. That would be really cool. I will definitely try that out, now that I have learned how to build frames.

Joachim: Shifting gears a little bit.
I know you quite well, which means that I’m aware of some of the adversity you’ve been through in the last five years. I was thinking it would be interesting to know how those tough times that you’ve faced in your private life influenced your art, or how you think about the role of art in your life.

Håkon: Again, a good question. I mentioned it earlier a little bit. I went through a breakup after a relationship of about 12 years. Moving five years back, it’s different life. I’m at a different place [now], but that’s life of course. It’s been hard times, or learning experiences. Really hard times. I learned a lot about myself, and how important it is to take care of, especially, your mental health. How to change perspective. I’ve read a lot of books in the mindfulness section.

I’m a thinker as well. You and me have had a lot of deep conversations. You need to process your feelings, and try to like look at it from the outside. Always [try to] take something positive from the experience. But, it’s really hard of course when you’re feeling beat down and laying on the floor. It’s always easy to say afterwards, when you’re looking back, that it’s a learning experience. It’s [the same] with everything. Time goes [by], and time heals [all wounds]. Even though it seems hopeless when you’re in that moment. When the world crashes around you. You need to think different, and go in a different direction. To incorporate the art aspect of it… I didn’t make art when I was down. My feelings weren’t in the right place to make the art that I want to be making. My message is happiness. The vibrant colors. When I didn’t feel the colors inside, or the happiness at all, I didn’t feel like making art.

The only thing I wanted [was] sitting and drinking alcohol. Forgetting and doing stupid shit. To make things worse the next day, and then you’re in a cycle. A negative spiral. With right influences and people around, [I could] get back up. Then I got back the feeling again, [and] started making art, and got into a positive spiral. Also, from making art, but I needed to have the spark, or a happy feeling inside me to do what I do. Live how I want to live.

Joachim: That makes a lot of sense, and especially given the vibe that you want to get across through your art. It needs to come from an authentic happy place. You can’t fake that.

Håkon: I could probably [have] made some heavy, dark art during those times. I don’t know [if that] could have helped me [to] process [what I was going through]. But, that’s not what I want to do with my art. I want to make it from a happy place.

Joachim: What is good art to you?

Håkon: It’s subjective. It’s the person you are, what you like. Your favorite color might be different from my favorite color. Just one small thing as that will make a difference. What’s your life experiences? What’s your memories? The style that you like? There is no right answer. What is bad art? What is good art? What is art? It’s impossible to say, because it’s in the eye of the beholder.

Joachim: Let’s shift gears a little bit, once again.
You’ve tried your hand at many different things over the years: teacher, firefighter, personal trainer, entrepreneur, designer, artist, to name a few.

Håkon: Yeah, to name a few 😉 (laughing)

Joachim: How do you define success now, and how has that definition changed over time? Perhaps you can, if you will, describe a moment in time that changed your perspective?

Håkon: Funny you should ask, because I was telling my wife about that the other day. Success to me has never been about money, influence or like material things. It was actually this hippie teacher back when I went [in the] 10th grade, or something. I remember he said: “If you’re going to do something in life, remember to be good to other people, do not think about money.” Of course in this society we live [in today], [money] is an object. But, as long as I have enough money to have a roof over my head, and have a comfortable life… Everybody wants [to] stay dry and [have] their basics covered.

[It’s] always been important to me to [derive] value through the happiness of others. I really like helping other people. So, success to me, on a personal level, to put it in a sentence: “Success to me is waking up happy.” If I wake up happy, I feel successful because I have treated myself and my feelings right. So when I’m in a good place and I feel happy, it’s easy for me to spread that energy. As a teacher, or through art, or even in a conversation with a person that day I can pay it forward. It comes naturally for me, because it’s just the person I am. I knew from early [on that] I wanted to work as a teacher, because I like to work with other people. Success for me is being happy.

Joachim: It’s wonderfully simple and easy to apply. I really like it. If I wake up happy, then I’m on the right track. I’m on the path of success for me.

Håkon: People could probably be happy if they bought a brand new car. But I think that happiness will only last for a short period of time. When I’m talking about waking up happy, it’s because I’m happy with life and the place I’m at, at this moment. I wake up and I feel this is going to be a good day. [I] try to spread that energy to [the] people around me, and keep that good spiral going. Of course it takes work. That’s why I read books.

You started off this pod by asking me the question about “memento vivere“, and as you can see, it’s always been like a pillar or in my personality. Live in the moment. The happiness aspect of life. The spirituality behind mental health. We’re living life from our own perspective. Turn that into: “What do I have to do to be happy today? Take responsibility for your own feelings.” You have to reflect. It takes work every day. Suddenly you forget.

I’m not Buddha or anything like that, but I feel happy. I try to chill down, but of course I’m screaming in traffic as well. Sitting there maybe from Stavanger to Sandnes, and getting angry. That’s the things I’m working on. If you chill down and maybe take it down a [notch], it does something to you. It’s not the end, it’s the journey. “If I come home like 10 minutes earlier, okay, so I have 10 minutes more on the couch. Wow, couldn’t I just [have] chilled it on the way home instead?” Enjoy the ride, so to speak. That’s how I try to live life. Enjoy the journey. Not always working towards the end, or a result. Many would call [it] a success when you reach the end point. The product. But, it’s finding the success and enjoyment along the way that’s most important.

Joachim: Absolutely. I think we can’t choose what happens to us, but we can choose how we show up when it happens.

Håkon: Yeah, definitely!

Joachim: You are a well-read person, and you’ve explored life through many dimensions over the years. I would be curious to know what important truth do very few people agree with you on?

Håkon: Maybe the people I choose to share my [truly] personal points of view with, and the deep conversations [are the ones that I feel on the same page as]… I discuss these kind of things with [the people around me and if [do not agree], that’s okay as well. I’m not sitting with any answers for other people. I’m just talking from my perspective, and the learning experiences [that] I’ve had during my life. What has made me who I am.

It’s good either way, if people have a different opinion because maybe it can change the way I’m thinking, or maybe it can change the way they’re thinking after a good conversation. Or, maybe it can change the way both of us are thinking. The main goal is always to grow together, not trying to show the other person, or win a discussion. That’s not a intention to go into any kind of conversation with. I could get there sometimes of course, with my wife. I feel like winning a discussion, or even other people as well. But, the goal is to learn something from it. Maybe next time, after she or I win this discussion, we could learn to not do that again. Learn something from that.

I have a winner instinct in me as well. That’s what I’m trying to suppress in these [situations]. It’s good to want to win, or compete, but not in every aspect of life. It’s about learning how to find a balance. Like everything else.

Joachim: Choosing your battles.

Håkon: Yeah, that’s a good way to say it. Choose your battles. For sure. If not you will be a warrior every day. Every day.

Joachim: If we stick to this life thread, that I think we’re on now. In the last five years, what new belief, behavior or habit has most improved your life?

Håkon: Care less about what other people think. It’s only through life experience [that] I really have gotten there. I wouldn’t say [that] I don’t think about it, but it doesn’t affect me [as] much. Maybe it could be someone at the store. They’re thinking the same thoughts. “Why is he looking at me? Why is she thinking the way she’s thinking?” Overanalyzing people and [the] environment around [you]. Sorry, but fuck it! We’re here on a journey. It doesn’t matter what the other people think or say as long you’re feeling happy. Of course doing good things. Just the small things that people pay too much attention to, and give other people in society too much power over themselves. Just because of their own [way of thinking]. Be yourself, and be proud of it.

Joachim: Very often these golden nuggets of wisdom [such as] “Don’t care about what other people think”, or other sayings like that are very often difficult to incorporate until you’ve had some sort of experience that makes it true for you.

Håkon: Good point. Everybody has heard it. They’ve heard it a lot of times, and read it. For me even sitting here talking about, it seems like a cliché, but for me it’s the answer. But, it has come through work. Through reflection. Conversations with other people. It takes work because as you’re putting it as well, you have to incorporate it and make it a part of you. It has to become natural, and it isn’t done in a day, or a month. It takes years, and through experiences as well. The main thing is to reflect on your experiences, and try to make it better for your self. Your mental health. I’m not done I still need to reflect and work on it. It’s easy to I get sucked back into frames of the society. The stress with the, let’s call it, 9 to 5 working hours, television, social media and all these interference around you and find the right balance for yourself in all this craziness.

Joachim: Navigating. Finding your own path can definitely take take some time.

Håkon: It does. It does. [I’ll] always will be a student in the school of life.

Joachim: Speaking of school. For as long as I’ve known you, workout, nutrition, exercise has been a key part of your life. Even in Australia, in 2007 2008, some of the main studies that you were taking on was related to this. What kind of role does that play in your life now and what role has it played in your life earlier? Has that changed?

Håkon: Training has of course developed, and gotten different. I like to have a good look and shape of course, but it’s the health aspect [that’s] the most important thing for me.

In the start it was [to] train a lot, almost obsessively going to the gym. Now if I don’t feel like going to the gym one day, I listen to my body and I relax. Of course, if you do that all the time you will choose the couch every time. You have to push yourself out the door. I try to do a workout 3-4 times a week. If I’m not at the gym, it could be an hour walk in nature, but the main reason is the mental health aspect of it.

I could also get into a state of flow when I’m exercising. I’m listening to music. I’m in my own space when I’m exercising, especially at the gym. When I’m out in the nature, I don’t have any music on because I like to listen to the birds, the river flowing and the wind. Take in that soundscape.

[My relationship to workout, nutrition and exercise has] changed, but it’s still an important part of my life. It always will be. Now that I’m getting older, the health benefits [are key to me]. I want to live a long and healthy life. Continue to do the stuff I love. Long walks and sports. I want to live an active life.

Joachim: I think as we age and mature, exercise becomes much more about the mental part and longevity, than getting big quick. So, I definitely feel that it resonates. It’s about staying healthy for longer (increasing healthspan). Expanding quality of life.

I feel that it clears my mind when I go to the gym. It sort of resets me a little bit, so [that] I’m ready for whatever is next.

Håkon: Totally agree. It’s therapy for me. It helps me to stay in my happy place.

Joachim: You got all the endorphins flowing through your body… Lifts your mood up as well.

Håkon: It does.

Joachim: What would you say is the most important skill you’ve developed so far in life?

Håkon: Being able to talk to all kinds of different kind of people. Being able to at least give some feedback. It has to do with my education, and work as a teacher. Developing that talking skill and listening skill through the years. It comes naturally. So, I’m able to help especially the kids and see each person for who that person really is.

Joachim: If we circle back a little bit to your main focus area, art. What advice would you give to an artist just starting out.

Håkon: Just go for it. Take whatever you have [in terms of] equipment. It doesn’t matter. Or buy some colors you like and a canvas, or piece of paper. Whatever you want to do. Art is about exploring. It’s the journey [of exploration]. Have fun with it. That’s what it’s about. Like everything else in life, I think it’s about having fun. What else is the point, if you’re not having fun with it? Why do it then? Find something else that suits your style, hobbies, the person you are, better. Have fun with it.

Joachim: Yeah, it should be fun. It should be authentic. It should be something you want to do.

Håkon: If you start a new project and it starts to be stressful… I don’t think you should start anything like the FitInk. That was stressful, but I learned a lot from it. That’s why I’m sitting here now. Don’t do it if it’s too much stress. Stress is the worst thing for [your] body, mind and every other aspects of life. It’s not worth it. There’s going to be some bigger problems. There will always be a stress factor when it comes to something like art. Something expressive that you can choose to do or not. If it’s not to monetize, then it must be fun.

Joachim: If there’s a lot of work to do, but you find it enjoyable then it’s not stress and it’s giving you energy. But as you say, if you don’t find the fun in it and you have a lot to do, then it turns into stress, which is toxic and not good for you. Am I busy? Yes. Does it feel good? Then it’s not stress.

Håkon: Exactly. The energy part of it is the main reason for me actually. The art gives me energy.

Joachim: What are your thoughts on digital art and AI art? How do you think the creative destruction that we’re seeing impart with AI will impact the art scene?

Håkon: As a teacher, we started to discuss the use of AI in school. Especially with [regards to] writing. With AI and the art aspect of [it], I think you can find a balance. If you’re prompting, or asking, AI to make a painting for you, and then make an art print and sell it, could you say that you are the creator? You had an idea. I would say that’s the same as a company coming to me with an idea. Here you have four sentences about the idea, then you have to develop it. Like the mural I made at Fiskepiren. Espen told me that he wanted some music, etc. and I came up with some ideas from his idea. But, I made the art. So, what’s [the] difference if I tell the AI to make something based on my thoughts?

[In the case of] writing, maybe you ask it to make something, and then you develop it further. Use that as an idea for your work, then I don’t see the problem. Ideas [can] come from posters, internet, music, movies that are already out there. Ideas are often based on something that’s already there. Especially now in 2024, what hasn’t been said or thought of already? You need to be crazy original [to come up with something completely new].

You can use AI with art as an inspiration to further develop the expression that you’re looking for. We kind of have it already, with CNC. I don’t know if it’s called the same in English… Cutting metal, CNC machines..

Joachim: It’s CNC.

Håkon: I was watching this show on Netflix. One guy used CNC to cut out a skull. He gave commands to [a] computer… It was freaking cool what he made. He made a CNC print out and added his own stuff through welding. So, I’m thinking [similarly about] AI. Use it as the tool it is, but develop it further, and make it into your own style.

Joachim: It makes me think about 3D printing as well. It’s a bit similar to the CNC example you made. Where you make some descriptions, or some prompts, and then you have a result. Then you can iterate on that. You can even imagine giving a prompt to the AI. Then the AI comes up with a description, that then goes into the 3D printing. Then there are sort of layers of digital tools that then creates a product. Who’s to say who’s the artist?

Håkon: Exactly. I don’t think we will ever get an answer [to] that question, because there isn’t one right answer.

Joachim: It’s kind of philosophical question.

Håkon: Who are to tell what’s right and wrong when it comes to art. [It’s] a subjective thing. There’s been people buying art prints made entirely by an AI, because they find it nice, or appealing…

Joachim: …or maybe it triggers some emotion.

Staying with that theme. What’s next for you as an artist? What can we expect moving forwards?

Håkon: [I] don’t know. Seriously, I don’t know. I have this notebook [in which] I write down a lot of ideas. Sometimes also digitally. I have like 50 folders with different ideas. I write some text, and some sketches. I take a dive into that archive sometimes, and “I forgot about that one. Now I want to make that.”

I just finished two paintings this week for an exhibition tomorrow. At this moment my head are more ready for that exhibition. We’ll see what pops up. That’s the way I do it. I’ve been working with Kvadrat some. To mention Karsten. He got me into his gallery “Underground Gallery” in Stavanger. He’s become a good friend of mine. [He’s] given me opportunities to solo and group exhibitions at his gallery. [He has given] me a lot of opportunities and connected with me with other people such as the poeple at Kvadrat.

I’m just trying to go with the flow and see what happens when it comes to the art. It’s nothing I can force, and I don’t want to force, or hunt something. I’m fortunate enough to have Karsten and Lill working at the gallery doing their part to sell the paintings, and I can just paint. We’ll see what the next project will be. I’m excited too.

Joachim: It sounds like you have a great setup, and I can’t wait to see what’s next for you.

Håkon: Thanks mate.

Joachim: Towards the end, let’s zoom out a bit and focus on the really big picture. If you could get one short message (or image) out to the world, what would it say (or show), and why?

Håkon: To sum up: “Enjoy the ride! We’re only here on a visit.” We’re here to visit for a relative short time. It’s about being happy. Enjoying the time you have here in this crazy life we’re living. Nobody knows why. Find your own reason. Find whatever makes you happy. Have a good life. Take some chances. Don’t be afraid to try new stuff. Maybe you failed, but who cares. Learn from it and try something else, or develop it and do it better next time.

Joachim: Speaking of life, and inevitable end of life. Do you ever think about legacy? What you leave behind?

Håkon: No. My paintings are going to be here after me, but it doesn’t matter to me. When I’m gone, I’m gone. If there is anything else after this, or are we in a simulation? I’m open to every kind of possibility to what this is. I don’t care about my legacy, because it doesn’t matter to me when I’m gone. If I can [leave] a footprint behind that does something positive for someone else, great. I want to try to put out the positive energy, and the paying-forward mindset while I’m actually here.

Joachim: The last seemingly impossible question coming your way: What is the meaning of life for you?

Håkon: To have fun. I think so. When it all comes down to one ingredient, it’s fun. Why do you go on a trip? It’s of course to relax, but [to] have fun. Why are you going to meet your friends? To have fun. Why are you working? You have to get money to do something fun. To have a good time. There’s a lot of ways you can have a good time. What’s your good time? It could be reading a book. Having a cup of coffee. It doesn’t need to be on a party on a beach. It’s about having a good time with yourself, [seen] from your own perspective. Do the things that feel right for you.

Joachim: Well, I’ve had a good time today, with you.

Håkon: As always.

Joachim: How can people reach out? How can people find you?

Håkon: They can call me, on my home phone. No, I’m just kidding. Social media, Instagram, it’s HwkArt or Hawksen, and HwkArt.com. Check out Instagram or the website, you’ll find everything you need there.

Joachim: Excellent. I appreciate you.

Håkon: Thanks mate.