Born 1989 – living in Oslo. Peik Elias works with art as an exploratory medium. His works are rooted in an expressive, figurative tradition, with the investigation of phenomena as a central focus. Visually, he weaves together fragmented narratives with references to historical eras and modern myths. Thematically, his visual universe reflects the contrasts of life – the heavy and the ethereal, the tragic and the comic. The use of tacit knowledge is central to his process. He paints over, scrapes away, and "digs out" his works. Peik emphasizes the importance of images in our development. Before language emerged, symbols shaped our perceptions and dialogues – and images still evoke visceral feelings and insights. The starting point is that not all aspects of existence can be understood logically or categorized. Material, form, and color stimulate a different kind of reflection than words. Peik holds a master's degree in fine art from the Academy of Fine Art, a master's in design from the Oslo School of Architecture and Design and the University of Applied Arts in Vienna, as well as a bachelor's in philosophy. He has exhibited in galleries, art centers, public libraries, and theaters across Europe, and has held residencies in Greece, Italy, Germany, Austria, Denmark, and Northern Norway. Peik believes the phenomenon of art arises in the encounter with the viewer, and his works invite active participation in the creation of meaning.