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In order to give a nod to one of Sweden’s most beloved
artists, we’ve decided to feature the home and studio of Carl Larsson.
He and his wife Karin (along with their many children) lived in Lilla
Hyttnäs for most of their lives, and it was a constant source of inspiration
for Carl’s works. Indeed, its depiction, the quality of light, Karin’s flair
for interior design, and the lively family life are almost synonymous with the
world’s concept of Sweden.
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| "The Kitchen" by Carl Larsson, 1898 |
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| Photo provided of Lilla Hyttnäs by Carl Larsson-gården |
Carl Larsson was born in Gamla stan on May 28, 1853. His
family was very poor, but the early recognition of his strong artistic talent
gave him hope of a bright future. At the
age of thirteen, one of his teachers convinced him to apply for a place at
Principskolan, which was a preparatory department of the Art Academy.
After attending the Art Academy, Larsson worked as an
illustrator for books, magazines and daily newspapers. He spent several years
in Paris trying to establish himself as an artist but never had any success.
The turning point of his career occurred in 1882, when he moved to Grez, a
Scandinavian artist colony located outside of Paris. Here he met his future
wife, Karin Bergöö and underwent a significant artistic transformation by
turning away from oil painting in favour of watercolours.
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| "Crayfishing with the Family" by Carl Larsson, 1897 |
Carl had eight children with Karin, and found that his
family became an undeniable influence in his works. Carl and Karin later
acquired Lilla Hyttnäs from Karin’s father, and so they moved there in 1891 to
live and work.
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| "Breakfast under the Big Birch" by Carl Larsson, 1896 |
Lilla Hyttnäs, located in Sundborn, makes for an interested
day-trip for adults and children alike. The house looks the same as it did when
Carl and Karin lived there, so it gives visitors a unique look into the lives
and working spaces of this creative couple. It is also hailed as having
summer’s “most exciting garden”! The
house is home to The Mill art gallery, where visitors can view a colourful
exhibition of nature’s beauty in art and life.
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| Photo provided of Lilla Hyttnäs by Carl Larsson-gården |
If you’re interested in learning more about this interesting
and historic art destination, you can reach the official website by clicking
here.
Have you ever been? Let us know about your experiences in the comments below!
