Few & Far proudly presents an in-depth exploration of Gitte Backhausen’s captivating journey as part of our Artist in Residence Program. A Danish-born Australian artist, Gitte's multidisciplinary work spans painting, printmaking, and mixed media, all intertwined with her profound connection to nature, psychology, and the subconscious. Her collections, bursting with raw emotion, spontaneity, and intricate layers, reflect Few & Far’s commitment to showcasing original art. Now on display both in-store and online, Gitte’s work offers a unique glimpse into the intersection of creativity and the human experience. You can also watch the full video interview on our YouTube channel below for an in-depth look at her artistic journey.
When asked what draws her to painting, Gitte answers with a passionate honesty that underscores the immersive nature of her craft. “I love to paint because it takes me out of my mind,” she explains. It’s more than an escape—it’s a journey into the unknown, guided by instinct, brushstrokes, and subconscious exploration. This detour from the thinking mind allows Gitte to engage with the element of problem-solving in art, which, as she says, “keeps intriguing me and keeps me coming back to painting.”
Her relationship with painting is not about creating pretty pictures; it’s about uncovering layers of thought, emotion, and subconscious insight. This approach is reflected in the abstract nature of her work, allowing viewers to interact with the unknown parts of themselves as they engage with her art.
For Gitte, acrylic on canvas is the perfect medium. "It suits the way I work," she explains. "I work fast and in many layers." Acrylic’s quick-drying properties align seamlessly with her dynamic process, allowing her to build layers without waiting hours or days for each one to dry. This method of painting mirrors the ebb and flow of life itself—continuous, ever-changing, and layered with meaning.
Each stroke of acrylic paint becomes an exploration of colour, texture, and form. Working quickly allows Gitte to keep the spontaneity alive in her art, capturing fleeting thoughts and emotions before they fade. The multilayered nature of her paintings invites viewers to look deeper, uncovering new details with every glance, just as one might peel back the layers of the subconscious mind.
Gitte’s recent abstract collections are rooted in her deep connection to the natural world and her own subconscious mind. Living on the South Coast of New South Wales has influenced her work in ways she didn’t expect. Though she has always been an abstract painter, her new environment has led her art to take on more landscape-oriented qualities. “I’m obviously influenced by my surroundings,” she says, “and all of my recent bodies of work are inspired by where I live.”
Her series Gentle Wilderness is a prime example of this shift. This collection uses a lighter palette and references the ephemeral qualities of wind and change, both in nature and life. The gentle tones and flowing forms evoke the tranquility of the wilderness, creating an invitation to reflect on the constant transformation of our natural and inner worlds.
For Gitte, inspiration is everywhere. “Life is my inspiration,” she says, reflecting on the connection between the visual world of nature and the psychological landscape. She is constantly observing, contemplating, and reflecting on life and human behaviour, both her own and others'. This reflective nature fuels her art, allowing her to create pieces that are deeply personal and universally relatable.
When it comes to artistic influences, Gitte is drawn to artists who express raw emotion through their work. Among her favourites are Cy Twombly, known for his free and spontaneous brushstrokes, and Australian artist Elizabeth Cummings, whose organic, abstract forms resonate with Gitte’s own style. These artists, like Gitte, embrace the freedom of expression, allowing their emotions and subconscious thoughts to guide their work.
Though born and raised in Denmark, Gitte has found a home in Australia. The country’s raw, untamed beauty captivates her, providing endless inspiration for her art. “Australia feels like home to me,” she says, describing her fascination with the intricate details of the trees, plants, and landscapes she encounters. The contrast between Australia’s natural world and the more familiar landscapes of Denmark keeps her creative spirit alive, always eager to explore new facets of the environment.
This sense of discovery is evident in her work, which reflects the interplay between natural beauty and the psychological exploration of the human mind. Australia’s vast landscapes become a canvas for Gitte’s subconscious thoughts, creating a rich visual language that bridges the gap between the physical and the emotional.
While Gitte’s work today feels authentic and assured, her artistic journey has been anything but straightforward. “No, god no!” she exclaims when asked if she has always had a clear vision. Early in her career, Gitte struggled with the same questions many artists face: What should I paint? What do people like? What colours should I choose?
Over time, Gitte learned to let go of these external pressures and embrace her authentic voice. Today, she paints without concern for trends or expectations. “I want my work to be real,” she says. “If I don’t honour that, it’s not going to be a good result.” This commitment to authenticity is at the heart of her artistic practice, allowing her to create pieces that are true to her vision and deeply resonant with viewers.
When the opportunity to collaborate with Few & Far arose, Gitte was quick to say yes. “Tara has done an amazing job setting up these interior havens,” she says, praising Few & Far’s focus on original artwork and high-quality interiors. For Gitte, exhibiting her work in Few & Far’s beautifully curated spaces offers a chance to reach a broader audience while staying true to her artistic values.
The synergy between Gitte’s abstract landscapes and Few & Far’s interior aesthetic creates a perfect harmony. Her art, with its raw energy and deep connection to nature, complements the curated home environments that Few & Far is known for. “It gives a really beautiful feeling,” she says of the collaboration, “and Few & Far are doing an amazing job.”
Gitte Backhausen’s artistic journey began in Denmark, where she spent her childhood immersed in creative expression. Drawing, painting, sculpting, and writing poetry were early outlets for her artistic mind. Over the years, her practice has expanded to include painting, printmaking, assemblage, and mixed media, with a focus on abstract landscapes that explore the intersection between spontaneity and contemplation.
A graduate of graphic design and applied social science, Gitte’s interest in psychology plays a central role in her art. Her works draw parallels between the natural world and human behavior, inviting viewers to reflect on their own experiences and connections. Gitte’s art has been recognized in numerous exhibitions and art prizes, including the Fisher’s Ghost Art Award and the Feel Good Art Prize, which she won in 2023.