Fika: An important facet of Swedish culture with no direct translation, because it isn't simply a noun or a verb, but a state of mind. The spirit is coziness - complete with a drink, snack and another person. It is decidedly not a work meeting, entirely free of electronic distractions.

I've had this idea for a collection for several years now, to paint and feature women sharing in conversation and warm drinks. This year, and this season especially, it feels like something I'm particularly yearning for. Even if we all can't gather and be near each other this season, I hope this story of paintings warms you up like a full cup of coffee and the presence of your best friend (or coworker, or grandma, because Fika can be with anyone!)

The Inspiration

The subjects of this collection have been inspired by so many of the amazing women in our small yet mighty community up here. Last month my friend and studio mate, Hallie Kohler, helped document an outdoor reunion with some of us. The day was very organic and rejuvenating - filling our cup both literally and figuratively - and her photos capture Fika's ethos of “coziness” perfectly.

(The day we were set to meet it was storming in all areas of town and the peninsulas except, it seemed, on Farm Club's little hilltop, making our mission seem all the more kismet.)

As a people person and enneagram 7, I'm always looking for ways to involve more community into my artwork. A holiday collection (during a pandemic) feels like the perfect opportunity. 

Fika Mornings Dec 1st-Dec 10th

Each weekday morning leading up to the collection release, I'll introduce you to one of these women - who they are, what ‘community’ or ‘sisterhood’ means to them, and their favorite cozy drink this season. Think of this as my way of bringing ‘Fika’ to you in pandemic times.

Only Love,

KCB 

Curious how I'm making these beautiful emails? Meet Flodesk! It's pretty great.