Owe Zerge

In recent years, Owe Zerge's artistic production and painting have begun to be truly appreciated and revalued. Art collectors, auction customers and art institutions are experiencing a strong growing interest.

Owe Zerge's precise landscapes, still lifes and flower studies offer a wide spectrum. But it is precisely in his portrait paintings that the artist shines brightest. Owe Zerge's portrait paintings impress, with their wealth of detail and photorealistic sharpness.

Owe Zerge was interested in drawing and painting at a young age, which was encouraged by his father. In 1914, 20-year-old Owe Zerge started at Althin's painting school in Stockholm. The following years, Zerge studied at the Stockholm Academy of Fine Arts during the First World War.

Like many other young, aspiring painters, Owe Zerge longed to travel to various countries in Europe. First to Italy, where he stayed in Florence and Rome, and then continued to Paris for a stay in 1920-1921.

Owe Zerge was accepted with two works of art to the Spring Salon in Stockholm in 1921. In addition, Owe Zerge received an honorable mention from the jury, for an impressive portrait in the spirit of Hans Holbein the Younger. The "Spring Salon" jury's statement was an important, personal recognition for the 27-year-old artist.

In connection with the 1922 exhibition of the "Spring Salon", the art editor of Svenska Dagbladet wrote:

"That there was a large audience in the hall, that the Crown Prince of Sweden was noticed among the visitors and that the young debutant Zerge attracted attention, which was quite unusual, and had all his works sold."

But in 1926, Owe Zerge decided to return to Italy because he missed Italian art, culture and Tuscany. Zerge settled in an Italian monastery and worked hard to develop his skills and artistry.

The 1930s saw Owe Zerge return to Skåne in southern Sweden, where he settled permanently.

As an artist, Zerge continued his successful development and activity throughout his life. His artistry is particularly impressive in his frequent, ambitious portrait paintings.