Alfred Madsen was born in Denmark during a time of transition in European art, as modernist ideas were beginning to influence Nordic traditions. His early aptitude for drawing led him to formal training at the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts in Copenhagen, where he studied under some of Denmark’s most respected painters. There, he learned the fundamentals of composition, anatomy, and colour theory, alongside exposure to the evolving post-impressionist and modernist movements.
Landscape, oil on plate. Clubbed for 99 GBP at Palsgaard Kunstauktioner.
Exploring Form and Colour in Painting
Madsen became known for his ability to merge solid technical foundations with a personal, expressive approach to colour. His subjects ranged from Danish landscapes to intimate portraits, each characterised by a careful balance of structure and atmosphere. His use of vibrant yet harmonious palettes gave his works a distinctive presence, whether depicting rural scenes, harbours, or urban life.
Legacy in Danish Art
Over the course of his career, Madsen exhibited nationally and in select international venues, earning a place in private and public collections. His work continues to be appreciated for its craftsmanship and its ability to capture both the physical and emotional essence of his subjects. Today, he is remembered as a painter who bridged tradition and modern sensibility in mid-20th-century Danish art.