Lotte Laserstein: A Personal Exhibition at Kalmar Castle
The artist Lotte Laserstein has experienced a renaissance in recent years. Her art has been recognized both in Sweden and internationally, and she is considered one of the great realists of the 20th century. On December 11th, a personal exhibition about her artistic career will open at Kalmar Castle, offering visitors not just a glimpse of her beautiful paintings, but also an intimate look into the life of Lotte Laserstein.
An Exhibition with Historical Significance
The exhibition will be held in the Sture Hall of Kalmar Castle, a location carefully chosen with deep meaning. In 1991, a commemorative exhibition about Lotte Laserstein was held here, which became one of the last exhibitions the artist herself participated in.
Exploring Lotte Laserstein’s Journey
The first part of the exhibition allows visitors to get to know Lotte Laserstein. Visitors can watch a short film about her life and follow a timeline that chronicles her remarkable journey – from her childhood and breakthrough in 1920s Berlin, through her dramatic escape to Sweden in 1937 due to her Jewish background. After spending many summers on Öland, Lotte Laserstein ultimately found her home in Kalmar, where she settled permanently in 1957 and continued creating art with great passion.
Personal Artifacts and Intimate Insights
Through personal items like letters, childhood drawings, sketches, and artistic tools, visitors will gain insight into Lotte Laserstein’s life in both Germany and Sweden. The exhibition will also showcase props she frequently used in her art, such as parasols and hats. These items are borrowed from Kalmar County Museum and private individuals, including her close friend Peter Fors.
”Thanks to Peter Fors, we get really close to Lotte Laserstein. He knew her well and has even helped us hang the artworks,” says Meg Nömgård, Castle Manager at Kalmar Castle.
A Diverse Artistic Range
The exhibition will demonstrate Lotte Laserstein’s broad artistic capabilities. While most famous for her portraits and ability to depict people, she created everything from wallpapers and posters to still lifes and landscape paintings. The exhibition will showcase various art forms, with a focus on works created in Kalmar and Öland. Many of these artworks are borrowed from private homes and have never been displayed in an exhibition before.
”Almost everyone who has lent a painting has also shared a personal story about their encounter with Lotte Laserstein. As we’ve worked on this exhibition, we’ve had the privilege of getting to know her, and I hope all visitors will feel the same. It’s high time Lotte Laserstein is celebrated in her hometown, and we are incredibly happy to bring her to the castle. It feels good in the heart,” adds Meg Nömgård.
Exhibition Details
The exhibition ”I, Artist Lotte Laserstein” will be on display from December 11, 2025, to February 22, 2026, in the Sture Hall of Kalmar Castle.
Special thanks to Kalmar County Museum, Kalmar Art Museum, Nybro Municipality, Tollare Folk High School, and all private individuals who have lent objects and works for the exhibition.
