Iris Menckel-Olsson was a Swedish sculptor and teacher who lived to the remarkable age of 100. Born in Stockholm, she chose a different artistic path than many of her contemporaries, focusing on sculpture rather than painting. Her education took her to Paris, where she studied under the influential artists Antoine Bourdelle and André Lhote, providing her with a strong foundation in a more classical, yet modern, approach to form and figure. She further expanded her artistic horizons through study trips to England and Italy, absorbing a wide range of influences that would shape her unique style.
Table lamp in bronze, clubbed for 542 GBP at Stockholms Auktionsverk.
A Century of Artistic Exploration
Menckel-Olsson's artistic work centered on figures, portraits, and plaques, which she created in bronze, clay, and stone. Her work is a testament to her skill in capturing not just a likeness but also the personality and emotion of her subjects. She had a particular talent for sculpting the human form, with her pieces demonstrating a powerful sense of movement and presence. Her ability to work with various materials allowed her to explore different textures and expressions, making each piece a deeply personal statement. Her work was recognized internationally; she even participated in the prestigious Paris Salon in 1923, where she exhibited small sculptures in bronze and plaster.
Legacy of a Life in Art
Throughout her long career, Menckel-Olsson was a dedicated artist who exhibited her work consistently. She was a member of the Swedish General Art Association and her sculptures were featured in numerous exhibitions. Some of her most notable works include portraits of prominent figures such as Karl Karlström and Karl Nordlund, which stand as enduring examples of her talent. She passed away in 1993, leaving behind a legacy as an accomplished sculptor and teacher. Her artistic contribution is a powerful reminder of the importance of sculpture in the Swedish art scene and her unique vision continues to inspire.