The Art of Letting Go: Kim Pihl is Embracing Uncertainty in Creativity, Challenging his Innate Need for Control.

an article written by Mona Lisa Abramovich

"Relax. Nothing is under control." This modern mantra resonates deeply with Danish artist Kim Pihl (b. 1974), constantly challenging his innate need for control. It reflects a personal journey of embracing the unpredictability that defines the essence of his artistic process.

Years ago, his former folk high school teacher, Bjørn Lerbjerg, pointed out that Pihl's technical skills were unquestionable. However, he also emphasized that if Pihl ever hoped to make a significant impact, he needed to unleash his inner wildness. Lerbjerg's words have lingered with Pihl ever since, guiding his evolution as an artist.

As someone who thrives on control, Bjørn's advice struck a chord with Pihl. Over time, he developed a unique approach to his canvas, constructing his works and portraits through various layers of painting techniques. These layers range from meticulously controlled to dynamically uncontrolled, making the process lengthy—sometimes taking over a year to complete a single piece.

The Importance of Composition

Composition plays a crucial role in Pihl's art. Unlike many others, he deviates from traditional guidelines of "good composition." His initial sketches often feature unconventional compositions, characterized by imbalance and departures from the golden ratio. This intentional loss of control at the outset allows him to rediscover it throughout the process, resulting in works that feel more alive and possess greater depth, both technically and thematically.

Since he could hold a pencil, Pihl has been drawing and sketching the human form in all its variations. His talented cousin devoted countless hours to teaching him the fundamental tools of drawing. Today, his preferred medium is oil on canvas, occasionally interrupted by a nostalgic urge to let the pencil speak once again.

The Journey with Oil Paint


Throughout his career, Pihl has experimented with various materials, but he always returns to oil paint for its unique qualities. This was not love at first sight. Understanding the nature of oil paint took years, and he nearly gave up several times. Only when he learned not to control the material but to let it unfold through him did a long-standing power struggle turn into a deep-seated love.

The human psyche and its complexities have always been the foundation of Pihl's work. Whether it’s the POP ART style that marked the beginning of his painting career or the more body-centric, portrait-focused expression that defines his art today, the human element remains central.


Education and Influence

Pihl's background in educational psychology has significantly influenced his art. This education was a natural part of his personal development, shaping the direction his art has taken. Pihl paints moods, consciously exploring the borderlands where his works can be interpreted in multiple ways. Some perceive his pieces as dark and gloomy, while others find them joyful and life-affirming. The interpretation largely depends on the viewer's perspective and life experiences.

All of Pihl's works start with a basic idea or sketch that he follows, allowing room for wilder and more uncontrolled layers to enhance the original concept. He is often asked where his ideas come from and whether he fears running out of inspiration. While many artists face this challenge, Pihl has been fortunate enough to avoid it so far. His challenge lies in selecting the right projects, often having to reject others that he is also passionate about.

The Creative Process

Choosing ideas can be a lengthy and tough process. What if the idea he says "no" to would have been better than the one he pursues? Despite these challenges, Pihl feels immensely privileged to live off what he loves to do, and he extends his gratitude to everyone who has supported him along the way. Painting, for him, is synonymous with living.

Not being formally schooled has allowed Pihl to develop his unique artistic language. Over the years, he has drawn inspiration from various sources, including Dali's surreal universe, Asger Jorn's playful wildness, and the comic culture of his childhood. These influences, combined with his personal experiences, shape his art.

Inspiration and AI

Life's ups and downs serve as the foundation of Pihl's work. While he draws inspiration from the world around him, his primary source is the social relationships and family bonds that hold him together. He paints people and their states of mind, an inexhaustible source of inspiration.

One idea often takes a long time to develop, requiring extensive analysis and sketching to ensure it can withstand the process. However, the best ideas often come unexpectedly, hitting him in the gut and compelling him to start immediately. Consequently, Pihl's work does not exhibit a stationary or necessarily recognizable style, unlike many other artists. For him, the process is as important as the final result.

Recently, Pihl has been asked about the impact of AI on art. While he can't speak for others, he is not afraid or worried. AI will undoubtedly influence the art scene, as seen on social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram. Pihl views AI as just a new medium for artistic expression. Ultimately, there is always a human behind it.

Kim Pihl is a simple craftsman with an enormous urge to create, using nothing more than a brush and a palette. The journey of embracing uncertainty, letting go of control, and allowing art to unfold naturally has transformed his relationship with his work, leading to a profound and enduring love for the creative process.

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This article about Kim Pihl takes part of the 40th magazine, ARTICULATE | Anthropocene. Read, download or order your print version of the full publication below.