Birgitta Glenmark's paintings are characterized by a material curiosity. Walking around town with Birgitta or sitting in her studio, there are constant small exclamations; What is this! This could be used! Look at that beautiful surface! Birgitta's energy is contagious, one gets caught up in her enthusiasm.

Her paintings vibrate with the same energy. Playfulness is the guiding star. The paintings derive much of their expression from the choice of materials. Paintings on glittering tar paper that brings a mysterious enigmatic undertone to the image, metal powder that enhances the shine.

Other paintings on paper with ink that seeks its own path on the wet surface. Acrylic on canvas where the brush seeks its own journey. Stricter, more formal paintings on aluminum and airy paintings on rice paper. It's like the material sets the tone for the expression.

It is an abstract expression, but one can see traces and small signs of the impressions that are filtered into the painting. It can be travels in Asia, encounters with new artistry or the light of a summer evening. But above all, the paintings are born from their tools. It can be scrapers, brushes, hands, spray cans or pieces of cardboard or an iPad.

The paintings seek their own expression. They are not compliant. They carry a rawness that grates like life itself can do. They are bombastic and fragile at the same time.

But above all, it is a fun, warm and joyful world that Birgitta invites us to.

- Astrid Sylwan