Today, Gothenburg Colourism is synonymous with a handful of colourful, expressive artists, including Ragnar Sandberg, Ivan Ivarson, Åke Göransson and Inge Schiöler. Characteristic of the group is the sensual, almost passionate colouring, where colour is primary as an expressive medium. These are works of art closely linked to the salty cliffs and landscapes of the west coast, as well as to many international influences.
Inge Schiöler's life and painting are strongly integrated. He grew up in Strömstad, was educated at Slöjdskolan and was only 18 years old when he was accepted as a student at Valand in Gothenburg, where he studied under Tor Bjurström. His study trips took him to France and Spain, where he socialised with fellow artists such as Erling Ärlingsson, Karin Parrow and Ragnvald Magnusson. In 1931 he moved to Stockholm under the patronage of Gösta Olson at the Svensk-franska konstgalleriet. He rents a studio space on Urvädersgränd in Stockholm and comes into contact with artists such as Albin Amelin, Sven Erixon, Otte Sköld, Hilding Linnqvist, Gideon Börja and Bror Hjort. However, his stay in Stockholm was interrupted by Inge Schiöler's increasing mental illness, and in March 1933 his family arranged for him to return to Strömstad. Here he was given a studio in the town hall. But the young artist's mental health deteriorated and in October 1933 he was diagnosed with schizophrenia. He was hospitalised until 1960. For long periods he was completely apathetic and inactive, and when he did start painting again, it was on a small scale. During this period, however, his works were shown at various exhibitions and he became recognised. Gunnar Hjorthén at Galleri God Konst in Gothenburg organised the exhibitions and sales, and thanks to his success, the family was able to build a house for Inge Schiöler on Syd-Koster in 1956, a house that was to play a decisive role in Schiöler's life.
The auction's work is a tribute to the nature that meant so much to Schiöler. In intense, singing tones of colour, he creates a voluptuous and evocative world beyond time and space.
This work presents a close-up of the lush nature in which Schiöler lived, which is neither sought after nor constructed, but which, through the artist's hand, conveys the feeling of an almost super-reality.