In recent years, Astrid Holm has rightly gained renewed interest and recognition. As a colourist, she is unsurpassed, but she did not gain the same status during her lifetime as her male colleagues – and is then almost forgotten entirely. In a Danish context, Astrid Holm is a key participant in the modernist breakthrough. Holm began her artistic training at Emilie Mundt and Marie Luplau’s art school, then at the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts’ School of Art for Women. She is subsequently one of the first Danes to travel to Paris, where she stayed for a longer period from 1909–1914 and becomes a natural part of the international art scene and – as the only Dane – a student of Henri Matisse.

Back in Denmark, she is seen as an energetic and innovative cosmopolitan artist who, until her death is deeply committed to improving educational and exhibition opportunities for female artists while engaging in social issues. In 1916, she establishes her own art school, and in 1921, she becomes the first female teacher at the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts, as the leader of a newly established weaving school. Her pictorial production is thus limited, as she spends time and energy on educational and organisational pursuits.

Holm brings Matisse’s Fauvism and Cezanne’s Cubism back home with her from France, which was expressed in her landscapes, interiors, still-lifes and figure paintings, as seen in the fine work we’re offering here. For the male artist, the woman will always be something other than herself, which has often led to very distanced and stereotypical portrayals of women – as types rather than real people. Freed from the oppressive gaze, Holm’s models present themselves as they really are. The model stands relaxed and self-confident with bodily strength and curvaceous forms, portrayed with understanding, presence and honesty. The palette is incredibly rich – a cacophony of colours and shades, resounding with strong contrasts. However, with Holm’s unrivalled colouristic sense, the viewer is left with a sense of calm and balance.