Positioned in the picturesque countryside of central Sweden, Galleri Astley is a haven for art enthusiasts and creatives alike. Founded in 1977 by the visionary Astley Nyhlén, this privately-owned gallery has been a beacon for artistic expression and innovation for over four decades. Elizabeth Astley is one of the custodians of Galleri Astley today. She is highly equipped to know what makes an artist, an artist and how artist can be success driven without falling overboard, as they journey to achieve successful milestones.
She opened up to Ireho Aito on the journey so far and the impact the gallery has made in supporting African artists globally, as it is a tagline at Galleri Astley that art has no border.
Elizabeth shares the enormous task of running the gallery between herself and brother, Hans, since the passing away of their brother Anders Nyhlén. Interview by Ireho Aito.

In the begining…
The gallery was founded by Astley Nyhlén (1924 – 2008) who was at a young age, was so much interested in art. His interest made him to become the curator for a local Art Club, already in his early 20s. At that age there was a purpose for young Astley.

He was employed at his father’s book store but started doing art exhibitions, as far back as 1968, in Köping where he lived with his family.
In 1976 he found an old railway station that was abandoned and no longer in use in the countryside of central Sweden. Astley acquired it and turned it into a beautiful art gallery. The gallery opened here in 1977 and the first exhibitor was the famous sculptor and philosopher Ernst Neizvestny, who he had met in Moscow in 1968 and who was able to leave the Soviet Union in 1976 for the United States where he became a citizen.
ART HAS NO BORDERS was the term Astley firmly believed in and this is the concept the gallery continues to focus on. The tagline for the gallery has been widely accepted from its day to day activities.

ART HAS NO BORDERS was the term Astley firmly believed in and this is the concept the gallery continues to focus on. The tagline for the gallery has been widely accepted from its day to day activities.

The Presence…
Galleri Astley is situated in the countryside, in a beautiful environment surrounded by a serene lake, forest and wildlife that surrounded the two buildings; the Gallery and the Art Museum
The Art Museum is a beautifully renovated 200 year old, three – story, brick building that was renovated in the late 1980s and formerly was a storage facility building for grain.

The sculpture park between the two buildings features over 30 sculptures, while next to the gallery lies the Tekla av Dex park, a surrealistic feminist park showcasing over 50 objects and paintings on metal by artist Eva Zettervall. Visitors can spend hours exploring diverse art genres and styles while relaxing in the sun with a cup of coffee and homemade baked goods from the café.

This unique setting makes Galleri Astley the largest privately owned art gallery in Sweden. Additionally, the gallery features a frame shop, making it a one-stop destination to explore and shop for art.

Visitors can indulge in an immersive art experience, exploring diverse genres and styles while enjoying the tranquil surroundings. The gallery’s café offers a perfect spot to relax with a cup of coffee and homemade baked goods. As the largest privately owned art gallery in Sweden, Galleri Astley is a one-stop destination for art enthusiasts, featuring a frame shop where visitors can explore and shop for art.

The gallery host artists-in-residence while showcasing their work. In our printmaking workshop, artists collaborate to create serigraph prints. During their stay, we accommodate them in a guest apartment, whether they’re in residence or preparing for an exhibition, and invite them to join the opening celebration. Our approach is artist-friendly: we don’t rent out exhibition space or charge artists for displaying their work. Instead, we take a commission on sold items.

The Nigerian contingent…
Galleri Astley warmly welcomes artists from around the world. Kunle Adeyemi was introduced to us by Aino Ternstedt, former owner of Lagos’ Quintessence Gallery. His 2008 visit paved the way for fellow Nigerian artists Adeola Balogun and Alimi Adewale. These talented individuals have become integral to our community, befriending staff, neighbours, and regular visitors alike.

These talented individuals have become integral to our community, befriending staff, neighbours, and regular visitors alike.

Quality…
Their art resonates deeply, masterfully blending traditional African culture with innovative contemporary styles. This unique fusion has captivated our audience, solidifying Galleri Astley’s reputation as a hub for diverse artistic expression.

Galleri Astley and opportunities…
We facilitate by inviting artists and give them opportunity to also connect with other artists or art schools or venues while in Sweden. They can then collaborate to find similarities or differences in materials and techniques.

I think the authenticity of the artist´s work is what makes the exhibition interesting and is the essence of the purpose of showing the works.

Talents discovery…
We discover talented artists through personal connections and word of mouth. Our approach is straightforward; when we encounter exceptional art, we showcase it. With over five decades of experience since 1968, we have built a network of artists we collaborate with, featuring them in recurring exhibitions that highlight their remarkable work.

Galleri Astley inspiring conversations…
Galleri Astley has consistently championed art that sparks meaningful conversations. From its founder Astley Nyhlén to the present day, the gallery has remained open-minded and committed to showcasing art that explores social justice, climate change, identity, and culture – themes that inspire and raise awareness among the public.

Essence…
One of the essence of the gallery is dedicated to making art accessible. We offer free services to schools, including printmaking workshops and guided exhibitions, although budget constraints and scheduling have limited these opportunities. We also host public lectures on art, free of charge, and all exhibitions are open to everyone at no cost, regardless of their commercial nature.

Missing Anders…
We are still adjusting after the loss of our brother and colleague Anders Nyhlén, a mentor and director who played a pivotal role in Galleri Astley. Now, my brother Hans and I are carrying on his legacy, dividing his responsibilities between us. It’s a significant undertaking, but we are committed to maintaining the gallery’s excellence. We have upcoming exhibitions planned and look forward to welcoming the public. We are also eager to reconnect with our friends in Lagos and explore future collaborations.

Interview/Ireho Aito/Don’t Keep Your Art in the Finger!/Photographs/Images/ Elizabeth Astley Nyhlen