Per Gøransson

1924 –

2008

Per Magnus Ingevald Göransson (1924–2008) was a Swedish-born Norwegian painter and textile artist renowned for his collaborative textile works and individual artistic contributions.

Education and Early Career

Göransson completed his painter’s apprenticeship in 1944 and pursued studies at Konstfackskolan in Stockholm (1946–1950). He furthered his education at the Norwegian National Academy of Fine Arts in Oslo under Per Krohg (1958–1959) and at the Accademia di Belle Arti in Florence, Italy.

Artistic Practice

Göransson’s artistic journey was closely intertwined with his wife, textile artist Eli-Marie Johnsen. Together, they collaborated on numerous public commissions, with Göransson primarily responsible for painting the cartoons and Johnsen executing the weaving. Their innovative approach combined traditional techniques with modern themes, often incorporating unconventional materials and methods.

Notable Works and Collaborations

Stavanger Library (1962–1965): A series of four tapestries—Melkeveien (The Milky Way), Syvstjernen (The Seven Stars), Jorden (The Earth), and Solen (The Sun)—featuring cosmic motifs inspired by the Book of Job.
Hotel Klubben, Tønsberg (1967–1968): A 33-meter-long stage curtain crafted with blue acrylic, Thai silk, Indian cotton, and large plastic sequins, serving as the central adornment of the theater.
Norges Vassdrags- og Elektrisitetsvesen, Oslo (1968): Four tapestries—Ild (Fire), Luft/Jord (Air/Earth), Vann (Water), and Dyrket Mark (Cultivated Land)—woven using various techniques to symbolize natural elements.

Individual Artistic Contributions

Beyond his collaborative textile projects, Göransson was an accomplished painter, particularly in watercolors, employing an abstracted naturalistic style. His solo exhibitions included venues such as Unge Kunstneres Samfunn (1962) and Galleri Per in Oslo (1968).

Legacy

Per Göransson’s innovative fusion of traditional textile techniques with contemporary artistic expressions has left a lasting impact on Scandinavian textile art. His collaborative works with Eli-Marie Johnsen continue to be celebrated for their artistic and cultural significance.