Craft, Clarity, Creation

Misconceptions about our school are nothing new. Recent public discussions have once again placed us within narratives that do not reflect who we are. Rather than reacting to every assumption, we see this as an opportunity to articulate, for ourselves and others, the values that shape our education. (Estimated reading time: 5 min)

Clarifying Who We Are

The Florence Academy of Art / Sweden has, on occasion, been misrepresented—sometimes by those who simply misunderstand us, other times by those eager to fit us into a convenient narrative. The most recent example is a widely circulated newsletter and social media post by an established art critic and lecturer that attempts to frame our school as part of a far-right movement. These claims, though often delivered with humor, reveal a deeper misconception about what we do.

Most of the time, such misrepresentations are not worth responding to. Energy is better spent on the work itself—on what we can control, rather than chasing perceptions shaped by those outside our school. However, moments like these sometimes provide a useful opportunity: an opportunity to articulate, for ourselves and others, what we stand for. Over the past week, I have seen an impressive range of responses—many thoughtful and well-articulated. This text aims to add a clear statement on who we are, what we do, and what kind of education we offer. These words are mine, but the faculty have proofread and stand behind these sentiments.

A Place for Artists, Not Agendas

The Florence Academy of Art / Sweden is not a political institution, nor do we promote a particular worldview. Some have tried to fit us into ideological frameworks, but the reality is simpler: we welcome students from all backgrounds, with all kinds of beliefs, as long as they share a commitment to painting. Our curriculum is focused on skill, not dogma. The only agenda we have is technical excellence.

In our studios, students engage with a broad range of artistic and intellectual traditions. Some of the students are drawn to classical notions of beauty—ideas that have echoed across centuries and cultures. Others challenge these ideas, reject them while exploring alternative forms of expression. We make space for both. We do not dictate artistic values; we provide students with the tools to develop their own.

Tradition as a Launchpad

Our focus on skills and representational painting is not about preserving the past for its own sake. It is about giving artists the tools and means to create relevant, meaningful work. We believe that the idea that technical skill stifles creativity is simply wrong. No one tells a musician to avoid mastering their instrument to remain “free”. Students at our school study the art of the past, not to replicate it, but to learn from it. The greatest artists of history have drawn from their predecessors while responding to their own time. An endeavor like this should not be controversial.

At The Florence Academy of Art / Sweden, we do not impose a singular artistic vision. We equip students with knowledge and skills, so they can forge their own paths. Whether they choose to embrace tradition, challenge it, or reinvent it entirely, they do so from a place of understanding rather than limitation.

A School for Independent Thinkers

The Florence Academy of Art / Sweden is sometimes linked to artistic groups that define themselves through rejection—communities that isolate themselves from contemporary discourse, enforce rigid artistic doctrines, or demand unwavering allegiance to a set of ideas. One such example is the group of painters surrounding Odd Nerdrum, which has positioned itself as a countercultural movement with its own internal philosophies and hierarchy.

We are not part of that world. Unlike closed artistic communities, we are an open institution dedicated to education, critical thinking, and skill development. Our students engage with a wide range of influences, perspectives, and historical contexts rather than adhering to a singular artistic doctrine.

That said, we welcome students from all perspectives. Those who admire movements like Nerdrum’s have a place here, just as much as those who reject them outright. We are not here to dictate artistic beliefs—we are here to provide a space where students can engage with ideas, refine their craft, and ultimately determine their own artistic direction.

A Community of Many Voices

Far from being an exclusive or insular institution, The Florence Academy of Art / Sweden is one of the most diverse art schools in the country. Our students come from all over the world, bringing with them different cultures, perspectives, and artistic ambitions. They range in age, background, and life experience—some arrive straight from secondary school, others have degrees in architecture, illustration, or contemporary art, and many have built careers in entirely different fields before deciding to pursue painting.

Furthermore, our students hold a wide range of political, philosophical, and artistic viewpoints. Some are drawn to classical ideals of beauty and form, while others are interested in subverting or reinterpreting these traditions. Some see painting as a deeply personal pursuit, while others approach it as a means of engaging with contemporary discourse. Et cetera. What unites them is not a shared ideology, but a shared dedication to their craft.

We do not ask our students to conform to any particular vision of art. Instead, we offer them the skills, knowledge, and critical perspective to shape their own.