Astrid Svangren

In the work of Astrid Svangren the figurative and the abstract meet and merge. A recurring theme is that of women and their private spheres. Her figures often lack any distinct facial features. They are, however, equipped with hats, costumes and high-heeled shoes reminiscent of a past age. Her art deals with the transformations of women’s bodies and the search for identity. The atmosphere of such scenes varies widely, suggestive both of longing and fear. Astrid Svangren paints with care. Her brush lines flow across the surface of the picture, combining in delicate details. Outlines have great importance, and yet her brush strokes can suddenly become sweeping. She rejects central perspective, instead creating a visual space in which the viewer’s eye can wander freely without any directive indications.