Gudrun Poulsen

Gudrun Thorgerd Erna Poulsen (7 March 1918– 20 July 1999) was a Danish painter. Inspired by nature, she painted mainly country landscapes, often including cows. From the 1960s, she spent much of her time painting on the island of Møn while in the 1970s she turned to religious works with animals. A strong supporter of women artists, from 1954 to 1992 she headed Denmark's Society of Female Artists.

Early life Born in Copenhagen, Gudrun Thorgerd Erna Poulsen was the daughter of the lawyer Poul Mikael Poulsen (1880–1939) and the schoolteacher Jenny Ottosen (1881–1950). She was brought up in Hellerup by two outgoing parents. Her mother, a schoolteacher, held Bible classes in the home while her father was active as a trade union lawyer and as an advisor to political leaders including Prime Minister Thorvald Stauning. Poulsen showed interest in drawing as a small child, perhaps encouraged by the sculptor Rudolph Tegner, a frequent visitor. Her interest in landscapes and cows started when she was visiting her grandparents on their farm near Bramming in southwestern Jutland. She later spend as much time there as possible. Other responsibilities included positions on the Academy Council and the Academy of Fine Arts.

Gudrun Poulsen died in Copenhagen.

Awards Poulsen's scholarships and awards include: 1958: Oscar Carlsons Award 1989: Eckersberg Medal 1990: Danish Arts Foundation