Description
"Composition" by Ole Schwalbe

Artist: Ole Schwalbe (Danish, 1929-1990)
Title: Composition
Medium: Oil on Canvas
Dimensions: 40 cm x 40 cm (15.7 in x 15.7 in)
Signature: Signed at the back

Description:
This striking oil on canvas work by Ole Schwalbe, titled "Composition," exemplifies the artist's commitment to abstract and Constructivist principles. With a clean and dynamic arrangement of forms and colors, this piece reflects Schwalbe’s unique approach to visual art. His work is characterized by a disciplined use of form and color, aimed at exploring the fundamental aspects of existence.

Schwalbe's artwork is noted for its precision and thoughtful integration of elements, demonstrating his role in the second generation of Danish Constructivism, which he and his colleagues termed "concrete realism." This painting, signed on the back, represents the refined and minimalist aesthetic that Schwalbe is celebrated for.

Biography:
Ole Albert Christian Schwalbe (23 July 1929 – 15 October 1990) was a prominent Danish painter renowned for his contribution to Danish Constructivism and his development of concrete realism. Born in the Brønshøj district of Copenhagen, Schwalbe was largely self-taught as a painter but received formal training as a printmaker from 1945 to 1950.

Schwalbe first exhibited his work at the Kunstnernes Efterårsudstilling (Artists Autumn Exhibition) in 1945 at the young age of 16. He was a significant figure in the Linien artists association, which pioneered the second generation of Danish Constructivism. His early work focused on black and white compositions before evolving to include red and eventually shades of grey and deep blue.

Believing in the total integration of art and architecture, Schwalbe contributed to several notable projects, including the decoration of Brandbjerg School (1970), Sukkertoppen Forsamlinghus (1972), the Danish Embassy in London (1977), and Holstebro’s library (1981) and town hall (1986). His artistic vision extended to public sculptures, such as "Kuglen," displayed at Holstebro Town Hall.

Schwalbe was recognized for his contributions to art with awards including the academy's gold medal in 1966 and the Thorvaldsen Medal in 1978.