CHRISTER GLEIN
Christer Glein (b. 1984, Trondheim) is a Stockholm-based painter, that bridges the gap between classical technique and modern abstraction. His work explores the "anatomy of art," often layering precise geometric shapes against raw, expressive brushstrokes to create a complex visual dialogue. Utilizing a unique "slow" pointillism technique, he produces flickering, textured surfaces that reflect on the deep history of painting and the psychological space of the studio.
Christer Glein is educated at Falmouth college of Arts, England.
AVAILABLE ARTWORKS
BIO
Christer Glein (born 1984 in Trondheim) is a Stockholm based painter.
Glein`s artistry is defined by an ongoing exploration of what he calls the "anatomy of art," a practice that masterfully balances narrative storytelling with formal abstraction. His career has followed a compelling trajectory, beginning with an Early Phase heavily influenced by the Leipzig School. During this period, his paintings featured figurative motifs and soft colors, often utilizing photography as a foundational element to ground his narrative focus.
As his practice evolved, Glein underwent a significant Transition to Abstraction. While maintaining a deep connection to classical techniques, he began shifting toward a more deconstructed visual language. This evolution was notably showcased in his 2014 exhibition, Equal Measures, where he began synthesizing symbols from various historical periods into a new, comprehensive visual lexicon.
In his recent work, this has culminated in a "collage mentality," where layered, textured geometric shapes dominate the canvas. He frequently creates tension by contrasting the raw, emotive brushstrokes of Expressionism with the sharp, precise edges characteristic of Suprematism.
Central to Glein’s work is a profound Art Historical Dialogue. He positions his art as a bridge between traditions, referencing predecessors such as Mark Rothko, Josef Albers, and Egon Schiele. This dialogue often manifests through unique techniques, such as a form of "slow" pointillism, where a light palette and grain-like strokes create a surface reminiscent of underexposed film.
The philosophical weight of this approach was perhaps best captured in his 2021 exhibition, Vekten av ingenting (The Weight of Nothing). Here, Glein explored the psychological space of the artist's studio, describing the act of painting as carrying the "weight of nothing"—the invisible yet profound burden of the collective history of every painter who has come before him.
Christer Glein is educated at Falmouth college of arts in England, with a Bachelor of fine art. His works are included in collections such as Kistefos, Oslo Municipality Art Collection and The Grieg Collection.
SELECTED EXHIBITIONS
2024 “Svømmeren”, Galleri Brandsturp, Oslo
2024 “Vi er forbannet med det vi gjør her”, BGE contemporary Art Projects, Stavanger
2021 “Vekten av ingenting”, BGE Contemporary Art Projects, Stavanger
2020 “Maleren”, Galleri Brandstrup, Oslo
2019 “Natura Morte”, Utstillingshallen, Vestfossen Kunstlaboratorium, Buskerud
2018 “Nattmennesket”, BGE Contemporary Art Projects, Stavanger
2018 “Bevissthetens skygge”, Galleri Brandstrup, Oslo
2016 “Rommet ved siden av”, Galleri Brandstrup, Oslo, Norway
2015 “Skjult Mønster”, BGE Contemporary, Stavanger, Norway
2014 “Equal Measures“, Galleri Brandstrup, Oslo, Norway
2011 “Before and After Science”, Rod Bianco, Oslo, Norway
2009 "The Adventures of Anyone" Galleri Trafo, Asker, Norway