Swedish art history spans several centuries, beginning in the Middle Ages with religious works and Gothic architecture. The Renaissance brought influences from Europe, leading to the emergence of notable artists like Albertus Pictor, who created vivid frescoes in churches. In the 19th century, the Swedish Academy promoted national identity through art, resulting in the National Romanticism movement. Artists such as Anders Zorn and Carl Larsson gained recognition for their depictions of Swedish life and landscapes. The 20th century saw the rise of modernism, with influential figures like Hilma af Klint paving the way for contemporary art in Sweden.