Open Shapes: Free Exhibition Showcasing Geometric Abstract Art at the Swedish Institute

Every month, the Swedish Institute in Paris opens its doors to researchers and artists based in Sweden who are working on projects related to France. But the Scandinavian cultural center also offers a vibrant and daring artistic program throughout the year, blending exhibitions and encounters. Following an installation by multidisciplinary artist Tarik Kiswanson, the Swedish Institute is preparing to showcase the work of painter and sculptor Olle Bærtling (1911–1981).

Regarded as a key figure in abstract art, Olle Bærtling initially worked as a bank employee in Stockholm. Following encounters with André Lothe and Fernand Léger, he laid the foundation for his future work, focusing on a strictly geometric style. It was in the early 1950s that he developed the concept of an "open form" and began creating his first paintings, where shapes extend beyond the canvas, reaching toward infinity. His works are characterized by triangular fields outlined in bold black lines, converging at sharp angles, with horizontal and vertical lines adding to the dynamic compositions.

• To be read
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From February 20 to July 19, 2026, the Swedish Institute in Paris will showcase nearly three decades of Olle Bærtling's artistry, highlighting abstract works characterized by bold angles, vibrant colors, and sleek lines. To explore the relevance of geometric abstraction today, the Swedish Institute will feature a dialogue between Olle Bærtling's creations and those of seven international artists: Cécile Bart, Rana Begum, Ulla von Brandenburg, Jacob Dahlgren, Bernd Ribbeck, Bella Rune, and Brooklin A. Soumahoro.

Ahead of the exhibition, the Nordic Cultural Center invites visitors to participate in creating an immersive installation in its garden. Titled The Wonderful World of Abstraction, this large-scale work by Jacob Dahlgren features colorful ribbons. It’s exactly these ribbons that the Swedish Institute will help you make during open workshops on Tuesday, February 10th from 2 PM to 5 PM, Wednesday, February 11th from 2 PM to 5 PM, Thursday, February 12th from 2 PM to 5 PM, or Friday, February 13th from 2 PM to 5 PM. More details and registration are available for one of the open slots here.