Lena Cronqvist, a pivotal figure in Swedish art, has passed away at the age of 86. Known for her profound impact on the art scene, Cronqvist's work explored themes of birth, death, and family. Her legacy includes numerous exhibitions and prestigious awards.
Renowned Swedish Artist Lena Cronqvist Passes Away at 86
Renowned Swedish Artist Lena Cronqvist Passes Away at 86
Lena Cronqvist, a celebrated Swedish artist, has passed away at the age of 86. Her family confirmed the news to DN.
Born and raised in Karlstad, Cronqvist studied at Konstfack and the Royal Institute of Art. She was married to author Göran Tunström until his death in 2000. They had a son, Linus Tunström, who is now a theater and film director.
Over nearly six decades, Cronqvist profoundly influenced the Swedish art scene. Her work often explored themes of birth, death, family relationships, and illness, utilizing various techniques such as painting, sculpture, textile, and graphics. She continued painting until a long-term eye disease rendered her blind.
First Exhibition in 1965
Cronqvist held her first solo exhibition in 1965 in Stockholm. Since then, she has had numerous exhibitions both in Sweden and internationally, with her paintings fetching high prices at auctions.
Today, her art can be seen at the Moderna Museet, Nationalmuseum, Värmlands Museum, and Gothenburg Museum. Her latest exhibition, "Six Decades," was showcased at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Stockholm in 2024.
From 1977, Cronqvist served as a member of the Royal Academy of Fine Arts. In 1994, she was awarded the Prince Eugen Medal, established by King Gustav V, for "outstanding artistic achievement."