Oskar Bergman

Oskar Bergman studied at Tekniska aftonskolan (now Konstfack) for four years and made several study tours around Europe. And yet, he is often referred to as an autodidact. Bergman adhered to a naturalist style, albeit deeply inspired by Japanese woodcuts and Symbolist art and characterised by vibrant colours and a luminous palette. He was also influenced by his contemporaries, notably Gustaf Fjaestad’s snowy landscapes and Axel Sjöberg’s paintings of the Stockholm archipelago. Bergman was a close friend of collectors and patrons Signe Maria and Ernest Thiel, whose mansion on the island of Djurgården in Stockholm became the Thielska Gallery. The Thiels played a critical role in launching Bergman’s career. In addition to purchasing his works, they offered him board and lodging in the Neglinge artist home in Saltsjöbaden, which they sponsored. Djurgården’s pastoral settings were especially dear to the artist, himself born and raised in Stockholm.