Ides Kihlen, the Argentine abstract painter who began her first solo exhibition at age 85, died on April 14 at 108. Her work, known for its rhythmic compositions and lyrical approach, combined geometric forms with experimental line work.

Born in Argentina’s Santa Fe Province in 1917, Kihlen moved to Buenos Aires as a teenager, where she studied painting and piano. In the 1960s, she embraced abstraction, creating works that balanced form and textural matter.

Her career saw significant milestones, including her first solo exhibition at age 85 in 2002, followed by international recognition at institutions such as the Museum of Modern Art of São Paulo and the Emilio Caraffa Fine Arts Museum. Her legacy is marked by a life deeply intertwined with her art.

“She was elegant and demure,” said Isabella Hutchinson, “and her art was everywhere.” Kihlen’s dedication to expression and creation through nine decades of constant artistic practice is rare in contemporary art.

With Kihlen’s passing, the world loses a luminary whose life story is a testament to creative perseverance. For us, she will always be eternal.