Under Cover Artist #121: Mina Berntsen

Interview: LeftLion
Sunday 05 January 2020
reading time: min, words

We delve into the artistic process of Mina Bernsten, the creative brains behind our cover which celebrates Nottingham’s music scene...

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Tell us a bit about yourself...
I’m 24-years-old and from Norway, but in the last five years I’ve lived in New York, Copenhagen, London and now Nottingham. Since I was little, I’ve always found it fascinating that you can express yourself in different ways. For me, my art works as something that tells a story better than any words could. 

What was the inspiration behind the cover? 
One of my favourite pieces, soulmate, is very close to my heart. I wanted to build on that idea for the cover and decided to call it rockstars. I figured, as soulmate represents togetherness and destiny, this piece could also represent artists and their common love for music and storytelling. 

How does it compare with some other projects you’ve worked on? 
Until now I’ve kept my art very close to my heart, and I’m only in the beginning phases of putting my name on it and getting it out there. My previous projects have only been for private clients. 

What was the biggest challenge you faced in creating the piece?
The biggest challenge is that my style does not create realistic drawings (to some people) and therefore, to make the faces actually look like the artists, was challenging at times. I feel that I’ve been able to be true to myself and my style while making the faces unique. 

What have you got planned for the future?
I have dreams and aspirations of owning an old house in France or Italy where I make my own wine and paint all day, but for now I’m trying to live in the moment and learn as much as I can from as many beautiful souls as I can. 

Is there anything else you’d like to tell the LeftLion readers?
I hope the cover talks to you, and thank you for reading. 

Mina Bernsten on Instagram

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