Esther Kjerner

Esther Kjerner (1888–1973) was a Swedish artist known for her lyrical landscapes and timeless still lifes. She adhered to a traditional style despite the rise of modernism, which delayed her recognition. It was not until she was 70 years old that she was brought to prominence by the gallerist and art patron Gösta Stenman, which gave her the recognition she deserved.

Kjerner studied at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Stockholm and continued her education travelling in Europe. Together with her friend from the Academy, Eva Bagge, she traveled to Rome, Brittany, and then to Paris for studies at the Académie Colarossi. The journey home went via Holland. Influenced by the masters of the Renaissance and Dutch landscape painting, Esther Kjerner developed a colourful and harmonious style. Her breakthrough came in 1941 at a solo exhibition at Gösta Stenman's art salon, establishing her as a significant artist.