THEA LØVSTAD
“Nature has and will always be the true inspiration for the works created by London-based sustainable photographer, eco-artist and art director Thea Løvstad.”
Her photography practice travels bewteen fashion and lifestyle. to focus on the beauty in simplicity and the unexpected.
Born and raised in the small seaside city of Kragerø in Norway, where the salt water meanders around clusters of islands, and the ocean crashes to meet the coast, Thea was always surrounded by pristine Nordic nature that feeds her creative soul. In 2012, Thea moved to London to further her studies and now calls the cosmopolitan city home. She strives to work with clients that share a common thread that is linked to our ethos at TextileSeekers”.
Q1. Tell us a little about yourself: What is your background and what inspires you to create?
I am a London-based photographer specialising in sustainability which means I strive to only work with clients (whether it be in fashion, cosmetics, interior or lifestyle) who are considered ethical, sustainable and eco-friendly. In addition I am also the Contributing Photo Editor of conscious lifestyle and fashion magazine, Å Journal.
Kragerø, a small sea side city in Norway, is where I grew up and lived until 2012 when studies in London awaited. My hometown and motherland, and the surrounding nature has always been, and is still today, a true inspiration to my work and art. The ocean with all its changeable shapes and extreme weather conditions, being soft and subtle, yet rough, mimicking the capriciousness of life. The clean, crisp air that underscores the purity of my environment. The immense density of trees and untouched forests that evokes a sense of reverence. There is so much beauty that deserves to be protected.
There isn't any other place that makes me relax better than home, and spending time by the sea always sparks creative ideas.
Additionally, travelling inspires me a lot and it is something I try to do frequently. I believe a change of scenery is important and input from other cultures can keep the mind open. All of which would serve to better myself and my work.
Q2. What kind of a traveller are you?
When travelling I prefer being part of the culture of the area I visit: Going where the locals go and eating their traditional food, visiting makers and artisans and learning about their crafts, exploring historical buildings, looking at local art. I definitely shy away from the typical tourist attractions.
Q3. Have you ever traveled solo? What tips would you give to a first-time solo traveler?
I generally only travel solo during business trips where I am focused on being present. The joy of travelling for me is to share the experiences with people I love, creating joyful memories that I can look back at.
However, that being said, I have always entertained the idea of visiting an eco retreat. This seems less intimidating and I am intrigued by how the trip can turn out. There is something about feeling like you are surrounded by a community which sounds appealing to me. And I am drawn to the possibility of immersing myself in a new destination, as I get to observe and discover new communities.
Q4. Where have you traveled to this past year? / Which travel destination has left you with the most memorable experience?
This year I have travelled slightly less than the year before, so far I have visited the following countries and cities:
Norway: Kragerø, Oslo. France: Samoens, Grasse, St. Paul de Vence, Nice. Bulgaria: Sofia. Germany: Berlin. Denmark: Copenhagen. England: Whitstable, Bath, Woodchester, Somerset, Margate, Cambridge, Sheffield
All the cities have their unique charm for sure, but I think I have to mention Sofia because it was my first time there. Ellen, my friend, brought me to this beautiful reservoir called Iskar Reservoir, situated on the outskirts of Sofia. The food I ate was also absolutely marvelous, with so many delicious dishes that are influenced by Greek and Turkish cuisines.
Samoens was also an incredible experience with the breathtaking sunset and phenomenal views of the Alps. I went there to celebrate New Year with friends and had the best time doing saunas, going on hikes and indulging in raclette and pastries from the local boulangeries - yum! As you can tell, one of the main highlights for me during travelling is definitely food. Is there really anything better than trying out new, exciting dishes?
This year I have finally spent more time travelling around England. It is about time considering I have lived here for 7 years. It was so easy to head out from London. Just hop on a train and it would take you anywhere.
This month, I will go to Italy, where I will visit Neive, Barbaresco and Cinque Terre. I simply cannot wait! Come September, a trip has been planned to Nimes in South of France, and a pit stop to go back home is also penciled in for now.
Q5. The emphasis on working with women sends such a positive message. Who are the female figures whom you admire?
Honestly all the women I work with are such inspirational characters that I appreciate and admire them for their hard work, talents and mentality. We all support and cheer each other on, which I believe is truly important in this industry because it tends to be uncompromising and competitive at times. Many of my collaborators have also eventually become dear friends, which is hopefully reflected in my photography.
Q6. How is slow travel different from the usual way of travelling?
Slow travel means leaving as little carbon footprint as possible. Eating and drinking produce from local agriculture. Supporting local craft and traditions. Respecting the culture and nature of the country you are visiting, and view each trip as a journey of exchange, learning and lending rather than splurging and acting recklessly. Sadly a lot of people change their mindset when they are away and act in ways they would never dare to at home. That is essentially the complete contrary to slow travel.
Q7. As an entrepreneur, how do you focus on wellness in your life?
Perhaps not such an original answer, but exercise and meditation is crucial in order to handle the stress one encounters as a freelancer. In addition, rituals such as eating a proper breakfast and enjoying (candle lit) dinner with my boyfriend every day makes me feel grounded. Speaking of rituals, routines are essential to introduce an order and to create structure in a freelancer's life. Aromatherapy, self massage after hours of being glued to a screen, and a harmoniously decorated home also contributes to keeping the stress level down.
Photographing with analogue without any commercial agenda, especially during travels, is still a massive passion of mine, and one of the activities I love the most.
Last but not least, spending time in nature, especially by the sea, with the phone on flight mode is truly calming and so important to setting one’s priorities in a hectic life.
Q8. Who do you think should come on this trip? and what would one hope to take away from this tour with TextileSeekers?
Someone who is seeking an adventure, who is curious to experience and learn about authentic cultural heritage. Someone that cares about nature and preserving its resources. Hopefully such a trip would create awareness of what a country can truly offer, and cultivates an openness and respect towards what is new and different. I also think this is one trip which would make you feel refreshed and rejuvenated after the journey.
Q9. Do you have one or two all-time favourite fashion pieces? Do you have a favourite designer/artist?
My all-time sartorial travel companion, no matter season, is the oversized “Thea” shirt from In-Grid Studio in white, organic cotton. It is perfect for travel due to the versatility: It can be used as a shirt paired with trousers for a smart but relaxed look, it can be used a shirt dress and it can even be thrown over swimwear. When I pack for my travels, my goal is to bring a limited collection of garments, but bring pieces that can be combined in multiple ways.
My travel wardrobe is more or less the same as my every day wardrobe, the key theme is always relaxed yet smart, versatile and pragmatic.
Q10. What are you reading now?
I just finished reading Normal People by Sally Rooney – what a brilliant writer she is! I highly recommend both of her books.