Otto Paas (1918-1987): Swedish Cityscape Artist

Otto Paas (1918-1987) was a talented artist who, due to circumstances in 1944, was forced to continue his creative work in Norrköping, Sweden. Despite being relatively unknown in the Estonian context, his talent is undeniable. He studied graphics at the State Applied Art School from 1935-37 and painting at “Pallas” from 1938-44. In 1954, he further refined his style and matured as an artist during a study trip to Paris. Paas has exhibited extensively in both Sweden and the United States, often in collaboration with Ants Murakin and Arno Vihalemm. His work, such as “State Road” (1971), an oil on masonite piece measuring 53 x 61 cm, best reflects his engagement with the Swedish cityscape and his ability to capture the delicate shimmering at the boundary of water and land.