the artist
Without slightest exaggeration, Ernst Billgren might be viewed upon not only as the most successful contemporary swedish artist, but also, as a phenomenon of his own. In a way that is specific to the phenomenon EB, he succeeds in unifying in one sense exclusivity with popularity.
the renaissance artist
Tempting as it might be, the concept of postmodernism is not applicable to the works of EB. His artistic production extend over a wide range of fields, permitting his aesthetic imagination to move beyond the notion of high and low. The genre-transgressing, or rather genre-dissolving artistry of EB, is part of a creative stand point where the possibilities counterbalances the impossibilities. Though an artist, EB:s artistic achievements are not constrained to the world of art: he is also the writer of two full length novels and the director of several movies. Not unlike a belated renaissance artist, BE approaches any given material in the same, meticulous and exploring manner.
beyond provocation
The only provocation that is worth its name, is a provocation that isn’t meant to be a provocation. The art of EB can be perceived as provocative, and challenging. In his paintings explicit elements of desire entangling in perspectives on power are no rare features. Likewise, the confrontation of folkloristic and classical or contemporary motives shall not be interpreted as a postmodern game, but as a variation of the baroque allegorical image. Beneath the references and the surface value, dwells a dark, hidden secret that aims at the very heart of the post-capitalistic society.