Midsummer Nuolja, 1922. September 20 2008 - Februari 8 2009 Helmer Osslund (1866-1938) had a special love of nature and is best known for his colourful landscapes from Northern Sweden. Waldemarsudde will shortly open an extensive exhibition, showing the breadth of his artistry. As well as featuring oil paintings and watercolours, examples of Osslund's ceramic works will be displayed Helmer Osslund was born in northern Sweden in 1866, the oldest of five siblings. After graduating in 1886, he worked in the United States. On his return to Sweden in 1887, he attended Stockholm Technical School (Tekniska skolan). In 1889, he was employed by porcelain makers Gustavsberg to draw patterns. He also became the factory's first artistic leader. He left four years later and went to Paris, where he studied for Paul Gauguin and learnt to paint on grease-paper. In 1897, he was back in Sweden, working for ceramics makers Höganäs. After this, he lived in Stockholm and northern Sweden, alternately. Osslund often found his motifs in Lapland and surrounding landscapes. He liked to work from a high vantage point, which allowed him to combine his artistry with his love of mountain climbing. His break-through came in 1909, at an exhibition at Konstnärshuset in Stockholm, where he sold most of the exhibited works. Helmer Osslund received support from a number of people throughout the years - during his time at ceramics manufacturers Gustavsberg and Höganäs, in the 1880s and 90s, as well as when working as a painter in the 20th century. Prince Eugen was one of those who supported him. He purchased several Osslund paintings for his Collections - the first in 1909 - and the Collections today number 15 works by the artist.