Biography
About the Artist
Inga S. Søreide (b. 1982, Stord) is a visual artist educated at the Bergen Academy of Art and Design and the Oslo National Academy of the Arts, with additional studies at Kunsthochschule Berlin–Weissensee. She lives and works in Bergen.
Søreide is a member of the Norwegian Visual Artists Association (NBK), the Norwegian Drawing Association (NBF), and the Visual Artists’ Association of Western Norway (BKFH). She runs her own workshop in Bergen.
Artistic Expression
Søreide’s artistic practice explores memory, inner landscapes, and the relationship between form and meaning. She works in both two- and three-dimensional media, including painting, printmaking, ceramics, and sculpture. Her visual language shifts between surrealism and figuration, where recognizable forms meet abstract, organic elements—creating a hybrid space where past and present intersect, and dreams merge with reality.
Her process involves modeling, casting, and reworking found materials into new contexts and meanings. Landscapes become metaphysical, psychological, or experiential—often rooted in memory and personal narrative. Sculptural elements subtly appear in her two-dimensional works, adding depth and layered expression.
Exhibitions and Projects
Selected Solo Exhibitions:
• Ein gjenklang i kraniet – Visningsrommet USF, Bergen (2021)
• HAVGAPET – Visningsrommet USF & Galleri Giga, Stord (2021)
• Kunstgarasjen, Bergen (2020)
• Galleri 21, Malmö (2012)
• Galleri GAD, Oslo (2009)
Selected Group Exhibitions / Projects:
• Vestlandsutstillingen (The West Norway Exhibition), 2020
• Statens Høstutstilling (The National Autumn Exhibition), 2006 & 2009
• Windmills of Our Minds, Örebro Konsthall, Sweden
• 21 år, Vestfossen Kunstlaboratorium, Vestfossen
Public Art and Commissions
Søreide has produced several public artworks. One notable example is the sculpture FishWoman, acquired by the municipality of Stord in 2013. The piece, inspired by Japanese creation myths, blends human and aquatic forms and sparked both public debate and enthusiasm.
Her choice of durable materials reflects a democratic approach to art—encouraging interaction and even play from viewers of all ages.
Thematic Approach
Across her paintings, sculptures, and installations, Søreide examines themes of transformation, transition, and human states of being. Her works often balance the familiar with the unfamiliar, creating space for both emotional and intellectual reflection.
Through collage-like compositions, dream imagery, and associative layering, she constructs new meaning from contrasts and fragments.
Educational Engagement
Søreide is also active in arts education and public outreach. She has taught in both schools and community programs—offering art courses related to mental health initiatives within the Bergen municipality—and served as a guest lecturer at the Bergen School of Art from 2010 to 2017.
Her pedagogical work reflects a deep belief in art’s role in fostering both community and individual awareness.
