Gustaf Fjæstad

Biography

Gustaf Fjæstad's artistic education began at the Academy of Fine Arts in 1891, followed by a period of study at the Artists' Association School. He provided assistance to Bruno Liljefors in the creation of decorations for the Biological Museum and also to Carl Larsson in the execution of his frescoes at the National Museum. In 1898, Fjæstad assumed responsibility for Christian Eriksson's studio, located in Oppstuhage near Arvika in Värmland. In 1901, a residence was built on Kampudden by Lake Racken. The Rackstad colony subsequently evolved into a prominent outpost in the art world at the turn of the century, with Fjaestad serving as its leader for several decades. Fjæstad is most famous for his paintings of winter and snow, and has become known as ”the master of hoarfrost”. He also worked with furniture in a rustic style and created designs for rugs and tapestries that his sisters Anna and Amelie wove. The Thiel collection includes five paintings by Fjæstad, his most famous piece of furniture, a large set of a sofa, table, and armchairs made of pine, and three woven tapestries by the Fjæstad family.

Wife: Maja Fjæstad (1873 - 1961) Sister: Amelie Fjæstad (1862 - 1938) Sister: Anna Fjæstad (1865 - 1946)