Jens Sørensen was a Danish artist predominantly known for his expressive scenes - particularly those depicting Dyrehavsbakken in Copenhagen, the world’s oldest amusement park. Inspired by the inter-war German expressionists, his works carry a certain naivety but are often enveloped in a sense of anxiousness. Linear figures are caught mid-hurry, gesticulating, or at times, looking directly at the viewer in confusion or suspicion. There’s playfulness combined with a contrasting element of world-worn experience. Edvard Munch (1863-1944) also springs to mind.

Sørensen’s early years were taxing - with critics concerned by his inconsistencies. But by the 1920s, perhaps invigorated by his study trips to Paris and Berlin, his career gathered momentum. Numerous works from this period capture glimpses of life at Dyrehavsbakken. Colourful effervescent compositions with a palpable buzz. ‘Bakken’, as it’s known, is located in woods near Copenhagen, and has provided visitors with thrills for centuries. Its heady cocktail of sights, sounds, and dance, drawing crowds both young and old. Sørensen thrived here, conveying a dizzying atmosphere from an outsider’s perspective.

Jens Sørensen trained at the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts in Copenhagen and his works were shown at the Charlottenborg Spring Exhibition. Admirers have compared him with German artists Max Beckmann (1884-1950) and Emil Nolde (1867-1956).

Exhibited

Dyrehaven Painters, Charlottenborg Spring, Den Frie, Free Jutland Painters, Amsterdam, Aarhus.

Timeline

1887

Born in Kolding, Denmark, to Jørgen August Sørensen, a shoemaker, and Jensine Sørensen (nee Hansen).

Studied carving in Kolding.

Studied at the Technology School in Copenhagen.

1910

Studied at the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts in Copenhagen.

1921

Travelled to Paris & Berlin.

1923

Debuted at the Charlottenborg Spring Exhibition in Copenhagen.

1930

Debuted at the Free Exhibition (Den Frie).

1953

Died in Roskilde, Denmark.