Erling Ärlingsson was born in 1904 in Värmland and commenced his studies at Valand Academy in Gothenburg in 1927, where Tor Bjurström was his teacher. Ärlingsson then began studying in Paris which was later followed by study trips, yet he ultimately found himself returning to his homeland of Värmland. During his time as a student at Valand Academy, Ärlingsson was part of the lively circle known as the “Göteborgskoloristerns”, who made significant contributions to Swedish art history during the 1930s. Like many others within the West Swedish painting school, Ärlingsson was a pronounced colour romanticist, known for creating a lyrically emphasized reinterpretation of natural experiences. His painting style is characterized by juxtaposed or layered colour planes, often depicting landscapes where everyday human activities unfold in a timeless manner.