Anne Marie Komissar

Anne Marie Komissar, born on December 13, 1937, in Trondheim, Norway, is a distinguished textile artist and printmaker. She studied at the Norwegian National College of Art and Design (1958–1959), the National Women’s Industrial School (1959–1963), and the Norwegian National Academy of Fine Arts (1987–1989), building a foundation in both traditional techniques and modern artistic expression.

Komissar is renowned for her abstract visual language, characterized by contrasts between flatness and depth, light and shadow, and a variety of textures. She often employs double-weave techniques, incorporating diverse textile fibers and methods like soumak and twill, which enhance the interplay of form and texture in her works.

Some of her most iconic pieces include “Ballet Africain” (1967), featuring abstracted dance figures arranged in vertical rows, and “Balada” (1972), showcasing her ability to create dynamic spatial effects within a restrained color palette.

Her solo exhibitions include notable shows at Galleri 27 in Oslo (1968) and Kunstnerforbundet in Oslo (1975). Additionally, she participated in group exhibitions such as “Artists in Bærum: 10th Anniversary” at the Henie Onstad Art Center (1978) and the traveling exhibition “Craftsmen from Norway” in the United States (1970–1972).

In collaboration with Sidsel Bergløff, Komissar created “Røde seil” (Red Sails) in 1984, a significant textile piece now part of the National Museum’s collection in Norway.

Throughout her career, Komissar has played a key role in elevating the status of textile art in Norway, advocating for its recognition on par with other visual art forms. Her work not only reflects technical mastery but also a deep commitment to innovation and the exploration of new artistic possibilities.