A BIT ABOUT ME

Birte Hosken would describe herself as an “accidental artist”. Having written two romantic novels set in Cornwall, she put her mind to the draft for a third book when Covid struck – plenty of time for writing? Not for Birte. Deprived of her main hobby, tennis, but allowed to go out and enjoy the amazing countryside and beaches around her (now former) home in Cornwall, she wandered along the coastline, picking up bits and pieces that the ocean spat out at her feet. She soon began using these materials for her colourful creations.

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Starting off with simple driftwood candleholders and decorating mirrors and lamps, Birte’s love for wood led to wall hangings of different shapes and sizes. Using mainly reclaimed wood she now makes interesting mosaic-like pictures. “They look brilliant on plain walls,” says Birte. Many pieces have been sold locally and further afield. “I am always happy to donate artwork to good causes and I am prepared to take commissions if anyone is looking to fill a special space at the home or office.”

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Each and every piece of art is totally unique. Birte points out that she keeps her materials as natural as possible, being mindful not to engineer anything. “It is quite shocking to find so much plastic on our shores. It may be exciting for me and my art but it is a stark reminder that our seas are in trouble,” she says. “Hopefully, my work goes a little way to raising awareness. Yes, the pieces are fun to look at but there is definitely a deeper meaning to them.”

Occasionally she will use oil or acrylic paints to enhance pieces so that they fit into a certain colour-scheme. Birte has also used her woods for simple paintings. Most of these pictures have a coastal theme. 

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In November 2024 Birte held her first solo exhibition in Carbis Bay, Cornwall. “Get the Drift”, just in time for Christmas, resulted in good sales and several commissions.

One year later Birte and her husband relocated to Lymington, Hampshire. Once settled into their home Birte had a studio built in her back garden where is she working on New Forest inspired coastal art, hence the new name “NEW FOREST COASTAL ART”.