Åland Post is one of the first postal authorities that have already introduced this year’s Christmas stamps. These two sparkling Christmas items was created by Swedish artist and summer Ålander Anette Gustafsson who has explored the magic of snow crystals through the versatile use of watercolour. This year’s Christmas stamps are Anette’s third stamp commission for Åland Post, and she has also designed the 2019 Christmas seals.
Stamp artist Anette Gustafsson was happy to receive the commission to illustrate this year’s Christmas stamps on a snow crystal theme. She gave the following comments concerning her work:
“I worked with the illustrations for many weeks and experienced a great challenge as I had to adapt my style to the expectations on the illustrations. I usually seek out my paintings, scrubbing for light and expression but, now, more contrast, colour, detail and an entirely different composition were required. In the end, I was very satisfied with my paintings!”
Delicate watercolour paintings are characteristic of Anette Gustafsson’s artistry. She describes her preference for watercolour as a way of expression:
“Watercolour is a divine musical material allowing playfulness in the process with a dash of surprise and spontaneity that I find enticing. I find myself in a nearly meditative state when I paint. I’m not tempted by the more exact or detailed painting, but I’m challenged by capturing the ambiance and light.”
See also other beautiful Christmas stamps.
