Bergen Art Museum | Bergen

The Bergen Art Museum (Norwegian: Bergen Kunstmuseum) is one of the largest and most significant art institutions in Norway, located in Bergen, on the west coast of Norway. It is a major cultural landmark in the city, home to a large and diverse collection of Norwegian and international art. The museum is spread across several buildings and offers an extensive look at the history of art, from classical works to modern and contemporary pieces.

1. Overview and History

• The Bergen Art Museum was founded in 1825 as a public art institution. It has undergone significant expansion and changes over the years, and today, it is composed of several separate institutions under one umbrella, including KODE 1, KODE 2, KODE 3, and KODE 4.
• The museum is housed in a series of historic buildings, each offering different focuses, including collections of classical art, decorative arts, and modern and contemporary art.
• The museum has been a key part of Bergen's cultural landscape for nearly two centuries and plays a vital role in promoting both Norwegian and international art.

2. KODE Art Museums

The Bergen Art Museum is divided into four main buildings, collectively known as KODE. Each building offers a different collection or focus, creating a diverse and comprehensive experience for visitors.

KODE 1 (Design and Decorative Art): KODE 1 is dedicated to design, craftsmanship, and decorative arts. It showcases works from the 18th century to the present, including furniture, ceramics, glass, and textiles. This museum section emphasizes Norwegian and European craftsmanship and highlights the integration of art into everyday life through functional design.

KODE 2 (Old Masters and Norwegian Art): KODE 2 houses a significant collection of old master paintings, Norwegian art, and European art from the 19th century. The collection includes works from some of Norway's most celebrated artists, including Edvard Munch, J.C. Dahl, and Harald Sohlberg, among others. This section is especially renowned for its paintings that capture the essence of Norwegian landscapes and culture.

KODE 3 (Modern Art and Edvard Munch Collection): KODE 3 focuses on modern and contemporary art, with a significant emphasis on the works of Edvard Munch, Norway's most famous artist, who is internationally known for his iconic painting "The Scream". This section features a variety of Munch's works, as well as an impressive selection of modern Norwegian artists and international contemporary art. Visitors can explore how Munch’s influence extends beyond traditional representations of the human experience.

KODE 4 (Contemporary Art and Temporary Exhibitions): KODE 4 is dedicated to contemporary art, with rotating exhibitions that showcase the work of living artists. The museum hosts a variety of exhibitions, including paintings, sculpture, installations, and new media. This section allows visitors to explore the ever-evolving landscape of contemporary art and engage with the latest trends in the art world.

3. Key Collections and Highlights

Edvard Munch's Works: One of the highlights of the Bergen Art Museum is its extensive collection of works by Edvard Munch, the Norwegian painter known for his iconic and emotionally intense paintings. The museum has more than 200 works by Munch, including paintings, prints, and drawings, making it a significant location for Munch enthusiasts. His famous works, such as "The Madonna", "The Dance of Life", and "The Sick Child", are on display, alongside more intimate and lesser-known pieces.

Norwegian Romantic Landscape Painting: The museum is also known for its collection of Norwegian landscape paintings from the Romantic era, particularly those by J.C. Dahl, who is often considered the father of Norwegian landscape painting. These paintings depict the rugged beauty of Norway’s nature, from majestic mountains to the serene fjords.

Modern Art: The museum's modern art collection is notable for its representation of 20th-century Norwegian and international artists, including works from the Expressionist and Abstract movements. There is a focus on Norwegian modernism, with works by artists such as Ragnar Kjartansson, Akseli Gallen-Kallela, and Kari Steihaug.

Sculpture and Installations: The museum has a strong collection of sculpture and installations, particularly in the KODE 4 building, which regularly hosts large-scale contemporary installations by internationally renowned artists.

4. Temporary Exhibitions and Events

The Bergen Art Museum hosts a wide range of temporary exhibitions throughout the year, focusing on diverse themes such as contemporary art, historical retrospectives, and international art movements. These exhibitions bring fresh perspectives to the museum’s permanent collection, allowing visitors to experience both classic and cutting-edge art.

Additionally, the museum often organizes workshops, lectures, and events designed to engage the public with art in a more interactive way.

5. Educational Programs and Outreach

The Bergen Art Museum is dedicated to promoting art education and fostering a deeper understanding of art through a range of educational programs. These include:

• Guided tours of the collections, offering insights into the history of the works and the artists behind them.
• Workshops for children and adults, encouraging creative expression and deeper engagement with the art on display.
• Special programs for schools, universities, and cultural organizations to promote art education and community involvement.

6. Visitor Experience

Location: The museum is located near the city center of Bergen, making it easily accessible to visitors. It’s a short walk from the Fish Market and Bryggen.

Opening Hours: The museum is generally open year-round, with varying hours depending on the season and temporary exhibitions.

Facilities: The museum has cafes, gift shops, and art bookshops that offer a range of books and souvenirs related to the exhibitions. The museums also provide wheelchair access and other visitor services.

7. Conclusion

The Bergen Art Museum (KODE) is a cultural gem, offering a wide range of collections from classical works to cutting-edge contemporary pieces. With its focus on Norwegian art, especially Edvard Munch, and its impressive international collection, the museum provides a comprehensive view of the evolution of art through the centuries. Whether you're an art enthusiast or simply looking to explore the rich cultural history of Bergen, the Bergen Art Museum is a must-visit destination in the city.