Siri Derkert. Pioneer of Swedish 20th Century Art.

Siri Derkert, self portrait, 1915 | Siri Derkert, 1966 © Photo: Anna Riwkin

Siri Derkert (1888–1973). A pioneer of Swedish 20th century art.

Early cubist, modernist paintings, fashion drawings from the 1910s, portraits of children and adults, experiments with materials such as concrete, iron strips and clay are all presented in this major retrospective exhibition at the Modern Museum of Art (Moderna). A show that also paints a picture of the life of multifaceted Siri Derkert.

In her piece 'Ristningar i naturbetong' (Carvings in Natural Concrete) in the underground station at Östermalmstorg in Stockholm, Derkert uses a special sandblasting technique to interweave the personal with the political. The piece thematically revolves around peace, environmental questions, dance, music and rhythm.

The peace movement and feminism were major themes of her work and are as relevant today as they were at the time she explored them in art and sculpture. A very inspiring exhibition!

Siri Derkert. Carvings in Natural Concrete. 1965. iPhone photo: Kate England