A new exhibition at the National Portrait Gallery in London showcases 45 portraits by Edvard Munch, running from March 13 to June 15. It highlights Munch’s social interactions and mental health struggles, providing fresh insights into his work beyond The Scream.
A new exhibition featuring Edvard Munch’s portraits is now open at the National Portrait Gallery in London, running from March 13 to June 15. The exhibition displays around 45 works, including self-portraits, depictions of family, friends, and commissioned pieces, highlighting Munch’s social connections and influential relationships.
Curator Alison Smith emphasised that the exhibition portrays Munch as more socially engaged than commonly perceived, moving beyond his well-known work, The Scream. She noted Munch’s connections to artistic, intellectual, and professional circles that provided support amidst his struggles with mental health.
This is the first exhibition in Britain dedicated to Munch’s portraits, featuring notable pieces, such as his 1892 portrait of lawyer Thor Lutken, shown in the UK for the first time. The exhibition begins with family portraits, transitioning to works of fellow artists, patrons, and collectors, reflecting Munch’s expansive influence.
Munch created hundreds of portraits throughout his career, which were essential in exploring the inner psyche of individuals. Alison Smith highlighted that these portraits serve dual purposes: they capture a sitter at a specific moment while also revealing their deeper emotional and psychological complexities.
The exhibition of Edvard Munch’s portraits in London highlights his social connections and psychological depth as an artist. Running through June 15 at the National Portrait Gallery, it showcases 45 works, offering a new perspective on Munch beyond his iconic pieces. This unprecedented focus reveals his engagement with significant figures of his time and the importance of portraits in his artistic practice.
Original Source: www.bworldonline.com