Artist of the day: Artist of the Day, May 3, 2024: Steve Kalinda, a British emerging artist (#2014)

Steve Kalinda (1984) believes that making art is like breathing or eating. He doesn't think about it, he just does it. Over the course of his life, Kalinda has explored other interested, but always returns, finding his practice a source of comfort and sustenance that nothing else can compete with. Kalinda's evolution to digital editing enabled him to express his ideas quickly and clearly, experiencing a new ease of handling to catch the momentum of the download impulse. Kalinda describes his practice as decoding incoming frequencies for new expression, a new piece of art becomes effortless and exciting, like the ease of chance. Art is like decoding light into form.

I have always been drawn to art and illustration, but I never fully committed to pursuing it as a career. Instead, I chose a practical path in accounting, which paid the bills but left me feeling unfulfilled. Despite this, I continued to nurture my artistic side, doodling and drawing whenever I could. The positive feedback I received from others only fueled my desire to explore my talents further. The lesson I learned from this experience is that it’s never too late to pursue your passions, even if you’re not sure where they will lead. The journey is just as important as the destination.

As technology advanced, I began experimenting with digital art on my phone, using apps like Adobe Draw and Adobe Fresco. Then, I started to share my work online and gained a following on Instagram, where people began to commission me for my art. This taught me to share my work with the world and not fear imposter syndrome. It also showed me the importance of using the tools you have and continuing to learn new ones.

In 2016, I established a website to showcase and sell my artwork and joined the esteemed online art gallery Saatchi Art. While it took time to gain traction, I eventually reached a global audience and made sales. This taught me the importance of persistence, finding the right platforms to showcase my work, and seeking out other artists for guidance and inspiration. In 2017, I had the opportunity to display my work in front of friends and family at my first solo exhibition at a friend’s coffee shop, a memorable and enriching experience.

During the Covid-19 pandemic, I drew even more and took inspiration from the city’s emptiness and calmness. This taught me the importance of patience and allowing inspiration to flow.

It’s 2023; I am thrilled to receive the unexpected honour of being selected by Saatchi Art as one of the 23 emerging artists to watch in 2023.

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