Rolf Hellem was born in Narvik, Norway, in 1998 to a Norwegian mother and an American father. Splitting his childhood between Norway’s Arctic landscapes and the coastal life of Anna Maria Island, Florida, he developed a deep appreciation for nature and the ever-changing qualities of light—foundations that would later shape his painting.

A major influence on Hellem’s way of thinking was his grandfather, a gifted storyteller who shared tales of Norwegian folklore, his travels around the world, and the importance of respecting and protecting nature. These stories sparked Hellem’s imagination and instilled in him a love for narrative—something that would later become central to his artistic vision.

At just 11 years old, Rolf began painting, and by 12, he had his first mentor, muralist Chad Ruis. A few years later, Brazilian-Italian artist Felipe Salsano introduced him to classical painting and encouraging his pursuit of academic training. This path led him to Florence, Italy, where he immersed himself in the study of traditional techniques.

In 2017, Rolf moved to Florence, Italy and spent two years at FCAA, and in 2019 he began studying under Sergey Chubirko at Chiaroscuro Atelier. Over the next four years, he refined his approach to composition, form, and narrative painting. Chubirko’s mentorship played a pivotal role in pushing his work beyond technical precision, helping him rediscover his creative voice and the power of storytelling in art.

Today, Hellem works as a professional painter, focusing on figurative and narrative-driven compositions while also dedicating time to plein air painting. His recent work explores themes of heritage, mythology, and the relationship between people and nature. Alongside his studio practice, he teaches plein air workshops, helping students develop their understanding of light, color, and atmosphere through direct observation. Whether painting outdoors or in the studio, his goal remains the same—to create work that is both visually compelling and deeply felt.