Embracing Artistic Freedom Daily

What’s my style? I think about that a lot. It's a question that's meant to define you, to put your work into a neat little box that people can understand and label. But here's the thing: I don't have a style—not in the traditional sense, anyway.

I follow where my feelings take me that day. Sometimes, it's toward bold, abstract swirls of color. Other days, I find myself meticulously crafting geometric patterns, each line and shape a deliberate meditation. And then there are days when whimsy wins out, and I create something lighthearted and playful. The truth is, I paint whatever I want to paint, however I want to paint it, on any given day. My work is an expression of the moment, not a predetermined template.

Some people might say that's a mistake—especially in the art world, where having a "niche" is often touted as the key to success. And sure, maybe it is a mistake. Maybe my lack of a consistent style makes it harder for people to categorize my work. But to me, painting purely for the sake of being "marketable" feels like losing the joy and authenticity of creating.

To restrict myself to a single style just because it might sell better would feel like putting my creativity into a straitjacket. And I’m not willing to do that. If someone connects with one of my paintings, whether it’s an abstract burst of color, a geometric design, or a quirky animal piece, that connection is authentic. It’s real. And that means everything to me.

So, no, I don’t have a style. But I do have a philosophy: to create with honesty, to follow my instincts, and to let my work evolve naturally, day by day. Maybe that makes me harder to pin down, but it also makes my art—and my journey as an artist—uniquely mine.

For those who choose to follow my work, thank you for embracing the unpredictability. Thank you for appreciating the freedom in my process. I’m not here to fit into a box. I’m here to create whatever feels right.

What are you going to do to be your authentic self today?

Katie Thornsvard