On Tuesday I’m going to see one of the Stockholm City’s artists’ studios. The city has a number of studios that periodically come up for rent. It’s highly unlikely that I will have a chance of getting this studio as they are offered first to those longest on the waiting list. I only came across the scheme today and haven’t even filled in my application to join the waiting list! So I’m just taking the opportunity to have a look and meet the woman who runs the city studio programme. On the phone she told me that people can be on the list for 10 or 15 years, I’m not surprised – the studio is in a great part of town, has an incredibly reasonable rent and is available for as long the artist wants it. I like the idea that in my mid/late fifties I could have a good and secure studio for the rest of my life.
Earlier this week I sent in my application for tax registration for ‘foreign entrepreneurs’. I was advised that setting up my company (the Swedish equivalent of being self-employed) as a foreigner working in Sweden is a simple way for me to establish myself here. I hope that it’s a way out of an otherwise somewhat complex catch 22 situation to do with my tax and social security status. Basically the authorities won’t register anyone who cannot demonstrate that they (or someone on their behalf) will start paying tax and social security as soon as they are registered. This means that someone coming here with confirmed employed is fine, as are those studying however it’s a bit tricky for me. Everyone at the tax office has been very helpful and I have a personal caseworker who I deal with each time I call or email – she even emailed to check how things are going as she hadn’t heard from me for a couple of weeks!
In the meantime I’m re-acquainting myself with the art scene here and slowly meeting up with some of the artists I met previously.
Thank you for the messages of encouragement.
