Victory Lap

Helena Hernmarck in her studio, circa 1975

I got a triple dose of Scandinavian culture last weekend at the American Swedish Institute in Minneapolis.

The main exhibit was centered on Karin Larssen, wife and muse of the Swedish artist Carl Larssen, noted for his idyllic watercolors of family life—a world largely defined by Karin. Her textile work was featured, both original and reproductions of work seen in vintage photographs.

There was also a ‘grazing table’ in the courtyard, laden with yummy Scandinavian treats, as well as a cash bar (with Scandinavian prices to match!)

But the real star of the show was Helena Hernmarck, a Swedish-born weaver/textile artist and a pioneer in modern photo-realistic tapestry technique. After we were shown a film about her work she gave a talk featuring highlights of her 60+ year career. The ASI has one of her major pieces, as do numerous museums, businesses and institutions around the world. Helena’s vivid descriptions of the art scene in the 1960s and humorous asides (when asked if being married had affected her work she said that it was true ‘for some of my husbands’) was a complete delight.

This appearance is a ‘victory lap’ of sorts for Helena, her assistants have all retired and she no longer does the large-scale work that made her famous. Her work does come up for sale from time to time, $$$,$$$.