Edvard Munch

A portrait of Edvard Munch

Edvard Munch was an iconic Norwegian painter and printmaker who became a major figure in the Symbolist movement. Born in 1863 in Loten, Norway, he was one of five children in a very religious and strict family. After the death of his mother in 1868 and his father in 1889, Munch found solace in nature and painting.

Munch was exposed to art at an early age, studying at the Royal School of Art and Design in Kristiania (now Oslo) from 1879 to 1882 and the Technical School of Art of the Royal School of Art and Design from 1883 to 1885. He drew from symbolism and expressionism, making very emotional and emotive paintings. Munch strived to capture the inner essence and psychological states of humanity, rather than outer appearances.

In 1891, Munch held his first solo exhibition at the age of 28, displaying his iconic painting The Sick Child. Two years later, he exhibited a series of paintings which became known as The Frieze of Life and were considered a symbol of the modern movements of the time. It included some of his most famous works—The Scream, Madonna and Death in the Sickroom. His art was both glorified and criticized.

Munch found success in Germany, having solo exhibitions in Berlin and Hanover and selling works to art dealers. Munch eventually traveled to Paris in 1895, where he came in contact with Vincent Van Gogh and the Nabis painters who were greatly influencing modern painting at the time. During his travels, Munch discovered lithography, a form of printmaking, and began to produce prints.

Up until his death in 1944, Munch’s works continued to be ever-changing in style and subject matter. In his maturity, he created landscapes, religious works, and cityscapes, influencing generations to come. His accomplishments during his life earned him numerous awards and honorary titles and today, he is regarded as one of the greatest and most influential Norwegian artists of all time.

Edvard Munch's artwork is a great choice for decorating a living space because it is full of emotion, symbolism, and personal expression. His vivid colors, dramatic brushwork, and intense imagery have an impact that will bring your living space to life. Munch's artwork is often associated with important cultural and personal movements and experiences and can be a great reminder of life’s important moments. Plus, his artwork is quite beautiful and can really elevate the decor of any living space.