Carl Johansson - View Over a Forest and Open Water

Carl Johansson (1863-1944) Sweden

View Over a Forest and Open Water

oil on canvas
c. 1905
signed Carl Johansson
unframed 45 x 65 cm
framed 54 x 74 cm
hand made frame from Stockholms Förgyllning och Bildhuggeri.


Essay:
This painting by Carl Johansson, titled "View Over a Forest and Open Water" is a good example of the artist's transition towards more vibrant colors and thicker brushstrokes, encapsulating the serene beauty of Västernorrland—a region often depicted in Johansson's works. Created around 1905, this piece marks a period when Johansson began experimenting with a richer palette, incorporating more blue hues into his art, signaling a shift towards Impressionism influenced by his encounters with the works of Claude Monet and Camille Pissarro.

At first glance, the forest appears as a mere green expanse, but a closer look reveals Johansson's skill in capturing the depth of the woods through varied shades and strokes. The inclusion of a steamboat on the water adds a delicate detail that enhances the overall allure of the painting. Unique to this artwork is its curved upper part, presenting a significant challenge to our frame maker Christer Björkman who made this frame by hand.

Carl Johansson, born in Härnösand, drew much of his inspiration from Norrland, yet his travels to France, Tenerife, and Italy also influenced his landscape paintings. His works are characterized by a sun positioned at 30 degrees north-northwest, a peculiar but defining aspect of his style. Johansson's artistic journey began under the guidance of drawing teacher Conny Burman and Edvard Perséus during his high school years, leading him to the Konstakademien in 1882. His association with the Opponenterna in 1885 marked his departure from the academy, emphasizing his commitment to artistic independence.

Johansson's study trips abroad, participation in world fairs, and exhibitions underscore his active engagement with the international art scene. His evolution from detailed landscapes in a traditional style to an Impressionistic approach with clearer, cooler colors reflects his response to the natural environment. In his later years, a notable blue tone dominated his palette, earning him the nickname "Ultramarin-Johansson." Despite the international influences, Johansson's heart remained in Norrland, earning him the title "Norrland Painter." His paintings is held in prestigious collections, including the Nationalmuseum in Stockholm, Kalmar konstmuseum, and Hudiksvalls kommun.