Originally trained as a geologist, Per Kirkeby is one of Scandinavia’s most celebrated artists. Influenced by his scientific roots as well as the gestural works of the Abstract Expressionists, Kirkeby created expressive, heavily layered paintings, which can resemble geological strata, the Danish landscape, and even the female form. “The role of art is to accept that things break down,” he said, “That’s the only way to get something new to emerge.” Known for being uncategorizable, Kirkeby worked across media—including architecture, poetry, film, and sculpture—as well as traversed art historical movements, having begun his career as a member of the Fluxus group.