The Art of Cozy: Five Ways Scandinavia Inspires My Illustration

As a Canadian artist living in Denmark, I find myself constantly inspired by the feeling of coziness. For me, coziness isn’t just comfort; it’s an art form. It’s a balance of minimalist beauty, natural warmth, and those small, everyday pleasures that invite us to slow down and truly enjoy life.

Living in Denmark for six years, I’ve come to admire Scandinavian design's unmistakable charm. It’s clean, warm, timeless, and celebrates simplicity in a way that feels inviting. Here’s a look at five ways Scandinavian design has influenced my work as an artist.

1. Embracing Minimalism

Minimalism is key to Scandinavian design, but it’s not just about having less. It’s about surrounding yourself with things that bring joy and meaning. In my illustrations, I focus on clean lines and soft details that convey warmth without overwhelming the eye. Each line and color choice has a purpose, creating simplicity that feels rich. Editing out details is tough sometimes, but it’s worth it for the calm that minimalism brings to each piece.

2. Choosing Muted Tones

When it comes to color, I naturally lean toward a muted palette (though I love vibrant shades too). Even my bright colors often have a touch of earthiness, like the slightly muddy pink background in my Hygge print. Scandinavian spaces embrace soft blues, earthy greens, and warm grays for their calming balance, and I bring these tones into my illustrations. These colors create a gentle, inviting atmosphere, grounding each scene with a sense of peace.

3. Celebrating Everyday Moments

Scandinavian design is all about celebrating hygge—those small, cozy moments that make life beautiful. I explored this idea deeply with my 100 Days of Happiness project, finding joy in ordinary moments. This focus on everyday beauty shapes my art now. I love capturing simple scenes, like reading by candlelight or savoring a quiet coffee, that remind us to slow down and find joy in the little things.

4. Adding a Touch of Nature

Growing up in Canada as a Boy Scout, I’ve always felt a strong connection to nature. Scandinavian design also celebrates nature, bringing the outdoors in with textures, plants, and views. I often include natural elements—trees, water, even a touch of snow—in my work. These elements add an organic calm that feels grounding. But as a city lover, I also enjoy blending this with the structured beauty of urban life, creating a balance of nature’s tranquility and the city’s energy.

5. Creating Art with Heart and Intent

I’m a naturally positive person, and I want my art to share that energy. My goal is to create art that’s meaningful and uplifting. Scandinavian design is about more than aesthetics; it’s about creating spaces that feel good to be in. My illustrations aim to bring that same warmth and charm. Whether you live in a small apartment or a spacious home, I hope these pieces invite you to embrace a cozy, mindful way of living.

If you love the timeless charm of Scandinavian design, I invite you to explore my collection. Each piece brings a little warmth, peace, and cozy simplicity inspired by the best of Scandinavia.