This year’s two sparkling Christmas stamps from Åland Post appear on 24 October. Through the versatile use of watercolour, Swedish artist and summer Ålander Anette Gustafsson has explored the magic of snow crystals.
Stamp artist Anette Gustafsson was pleased and excited to receive the commission to illustrate this year’sChristmas stamps on a snow crystal theme. However, the mission proved to be trickier than expected:
“I worked with the illustrations for many weeks and experienced a great challenge as I had toadapt my style to the expectations on the illustrations. I usually seek out my paintings, scrubbing for light and expression but, now, more contrast, colour, detail and an entirely differentcomposition were required. In the end, I was very satisfied with my paintings!”
Delicate watercolour paintings are characteristic of Anette Gustafsson’s artistry. She describes her preference for watercolour as a way of expression:
“Watercolour is a divine musical material allowing playfulness in the process with a dash ofsurprise and spontaneity that I find enticing. I find myself in a nearly meditative state when I paint.I’m not tempted by the more exact or detailed painting, but I’m challenged by capturing theambiance and light.”
