Nina Ellioth Kvamsdal

My name is Nina Ellioth Kvamsdahl, I am 44 years old and live in the beautiful apartment blocks at Ammerud. I draw, take photographs, and simply want to create. Never without a sketchbook, markers, and a camera. I have previously exhibited annually at the Welfare State’s exhibition Kaleidoskop. I also work part-time in marketing, including for a company that fights for a more inclusive work life for people recovering from addiction.

“Self-Portrait”

This work represents something deeply important: aftercare. We all know there are too few treatment facilities and the waiting lists are too long. But with safe and accessible aftercare, I believe we can prevent more people from needing to return to treatment. Aftercare is everything that helps you avoid slipping back into a life that caused so much harm. Sometimes you have to start life over again, and then it is invaluable to be welcomed back into warmth. This self-portrait was made during a previous treatment stay, on my very first evening back home—sitting inside, yet feeling outside.

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