Promenade in Colour

A vibrant and wonderfully lively street scene painted in oil in 1981 by the established Swedish artist Uno Vallman (1913-2004) whose works are included in the Swedish National Museum and The Swedish Modern Museum, to name a few. His works are also included in the collections of Lyndon Johnson, Jimmy Carter, and the Tessin Institute in Paris.

The composition depicts a bustling waterfront promenade, animated by colourful cars, strolling figures and boats travelling along the adjoining waterway. An ornate domed building rises prominently in the distance, while a line of trees and architecture draws the eye along the waterfront and gives the composition a wonderful sense of movement and depth.

Containing elements of Fauvism and Expressionism, the painting is characterised by its heightened, non-naturalistic colour palette, bold black outlines and expressive, loosely rendered forms. Rather than pursuing precise architectural detail or conventional perspective, the artist has simplified and exaggerated the scene, creating a playful and highly individual interpretation of the urban landscape that favours energy and character.

A joyful palette of sunny yellow, vivid orange, turquoise blue and fresh green dominates the composition, punctuated by flashes of red, white and black. The colours are applied freely and confidently, with energetic, gestural brushstrokes and areas of visible texture contributing to the painting’s spirited character. Strong black linear marks weave throughout the composition, defining the architecture, vehicles and figures while heightening the vibrancy of the colours.

This oil on canvas is presented within a wide, highly decorative wooden frame, featuring warm orange-brown mouldings embellished with hand-painted yellow-green geometric motifs. Both the painting and frame are in excellent vintage condition. 

Size: 58 x 66 cm (including frame)