Carl Johansson - Evening (Sörleviken, Nordingrå)

Carl Johansson (1863-1944) Sweden

Evening (Sörleviken, Nordingrå)

oil on canvas
signed Carl Johansson
unframed 39 x 55 cm (15.35 x 21.65 inches)
framed 50 x 67 cm ( 19.69 x 26.38 inches)

Condition:
Very good, strong and bright colors. Cleaned 2023. New frame. 

Essay: 
Carl Johansson stands out as a visionary, capturing the essence of Nordic landscapes with an unmatched poise and depth. This remarkable painting, called Afton (Sörleviken, Nordingrå), is a painting originating from Sörleviken, and is a testament to his extraordinary talent.

The painting portrays "Kåstaänget," nestled in the valley between the imposing Ringkalleberget and Sörleberget on the western side of Sörleviken. This location is more than just a geographical coordinate; it's a narrative woven into the history and culture of the region. Kåstaänget emerged in the late 19th century, a quaint settlement of crofters and fishermen, their lives intricately tied to the land and sea.


Sörleviken. Photo credit: Anna Nordlander 

Johansson78u's canvas is a symphony of colors and emotions, depicting the evening light as it graciously descends behind the mountains. The mountains themselves, bathed in shades of blue and green, create a mesmerizing backdrop. Below, the calm lake reflects the mountain's grandeur, and a solitary rower in a boat adds a touch of tranquil human presence. The thick, post-impressionistic brushstrokes bring this scene to life, evoking a sense of peace and introspection.

The High Coast, where Sörleviken is located, was inducted into the UNESCO World Heritage list on November 29, 2000. This area is celebrated for its unique post-glacial rebound geography. The landscape, shaped by the retreating ice sheets, continues to rise, creating a dynamic and ever-evolving terrain. The painting captures this unique interplay of nature and time, a characteristic essence of the High Coast.

Carl Johansson, born in Härnösand, was an artist whose mastery was recognized early in his career. His artistic journey, enriched by his studies at the Royal Swedish Academy of Arts and travels across Europe, shaped his distinctive style. Known for initially painting traditional landscapes, his exposure to the works of Monet and Pissarro inspired a shift towards Impressionism. Johansson's paintings, especially in his later years, were marked by a notable use of blue tones, earning him the nickname "Ultramarine Johansson."

This painting is not just a visual delight; it's a narrative of the High Coast's rich history and geological marvel. Johansson's work reflects a deep understanding of the landscape, an appreciation of its past, and a foresight into its evolving future. It stands as a tribute to the enduring beauty of the Swedish countryside and the profound artistic legacy of Carl Johansson.