October 2023 – Værkstedet VK3 / Denmark

Grethe Irene Einarsen

I work project-based with images, objects and installations where photography plays a central role. A recurring theme is human behaviour. Artistry touches on the complexity of man and society. I explore identity and interpersonal relationships. The works point to our search for meaning, belonging and how we relate to our surroundings and each other.

I received a thorough introduction to the Photopolymer technique. Fredrik was very present and helpful throughout the process. We encountered many challenges in the first few days, and the whole process of troubleshooting was instructive. Værkstedet VK3 is a lovely place, with several dedicated artists who welcomed me. There is good premises to work in, good light, a good atmosphere and good working conditions. Through joint lunches, I became part of a creative community. I borrowed a bicycle, and got out a lot in the national park that surrounds the whole of Klittmøller. With this, I was able to take a lot of new photos, which I made polymer engravings from. After the thorough introduction, many tests and some good final results, I feel confident in continuing to work with this technique from home.

The project I started during the residency has turned into an ongoing series.
"The struggle for existence" refers to Kristian Krog's iconic painting from 1889. Behind Krog's visualization of the working class lay a desire to change their living situation. Behind this project lies a desire to change our behavior in the interaction with nature. By mixing staged images of people with documentary photos from nature, the aim is to explore and visualize the interaction between man and nature.


I majored in photography at the Bergen Academy of the Arts in 1999. Based in Narvik, I work with art books, decorations and exhibitions locally, nationally and internationally.

Website: https://gretheeinarsen.no/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gretheeinarsen/