Klas Ernflo's panelled tapestry is well-crafted and delightfully abstract

Swedish artist Klas Ernflo hasn’t graced our site since 2011, and while he’s been steadily creating work over the years it’s his latest work which takes the form of simple, methodical figures on boards that caught our eye. Like tidy hieroglyphics, Klas’ abstract forms seemingly focus on the environment with a pair of peachy legs and a delicate silhouette of a cow in the mass of paintings. But it’s the addition of the scientific-looking instruments and wiggly, wavy symbols that add an ambiguity to the world Klas is documenting.

A series of 18 panels, his paintings could easily be likened to infographics but they feel more special than that. Using ink and oil paints gives them a sense of craft and technique that allows us room to appreciate the subtlety and graceful nature of each form individually. This consideration for each character makes it even more impressive when they come together in one magnificent tapestry of shapes and symbols.