It was a big step to apply to Capellagården in 1999. I had managed to finish a previous university education and worked for a few years, but clearly felt that I wanted to seek an alternative direction in professional life. At Capellagården I got time; time to land in the making and acquire knowledge and skills. There was room to focus on what you wanted, under supervision and personal responsibility. Then I appreciated the proximity to the other workshops - including the garden and kitchen - with the opportunity to follow their processes throughout the year. It was educational in itself and created a strong sense of context and togetherness. I laid the foundation for the ceramic expressions I work with today during my two years at Capellagården.
After Capella
As I did not have available funds for further studies, I instead applied for an internship through the Visual Artists Fund with ceramist Signe Persson-Melin. We worked together in various projects for 5 years in parallel as I started my own workshop. For a couple of years I also had a position as curator of the art and craft cooperative Formargruppen's gallery and shop. Since 2009, I have been working part-time for the branch organization Konsthantverkscentrum with a focus on development and project management in Skåne. I combine this with work in my own workshop, which includes both utility objects and unique objects for exhibitions. Over the years, I have also attended shorter continuing education courses at Konstfack and HDK.
My advice to future students
Use the time at Capellagården as you see fit - then there are different ways forward!