Meet the Artist | solsoldat

Rune Francisco Fauske

Also known as Solsoldat

For almost two decades, Lofoten has been my studio. From my base in Svolvær, I paint stories onto the walls of the coast – on facades and old rorbuer, from Reine to Svolvær and on to Vesterålen.

My work begins with heritage: the fishermen, the skrei, and the people and places that shaped life along the coast. I want to carry those stories forward, so they can be seen with fresh eyes – by the people who live here today, and by those just passing through.

Today I work between three studios: Svolvær in Lofoten, Dikemark in Asker, and a wooden castle deep in the forest of Tinn Austbygd, Telemark. Each place feeds my work in its own way.

My practice spans street art, painting, drawing and public commissions – from large murals to works in private collections, including one of Norway's largest.

Passing it on matters just as much. Through UngKunst Norway, a nationwide art program I founded, I help young people build creativity, cultural understanding and confidence in their own expression. In 2023, I received the Vågan Cultural Award for public art that brings history forward and for many years of work with young people.

Selected Milestones

2006–2008 · Nordland School of Art and Film

2010 · Solo exhibition, Wrap Art Gallery, Bergen

2012–2015 · Assistant to visual artist and printmaker Thor Erdahl

2013–2025 · Street art from Reine to Svolvær and Vesterålen

2014 · Site-specific public art, Prestengbrygga, Kabelvåg

2017 · Public art commission, five works, Morgedal Hotel

2017 · Three works acquired by Nordic Management Art Collection

2018 · Public art commission, Kræmer-as Building, Tromsø

2019– · Founder of UngKunst, a nationwide art program for youth

2020 · Private commission for Christian Ringnes

2021 · Grant, Snowshoe Thompson Memorial Fund