National Gallery of Norway | Oslo

The National Gallery of Norway (Nasjonalgalleriet) is one of Oslo’s most important cultural institutions, housing a vast collection of Norwegian and international art. It was established in 1837 and is part of the Norwegian Museum of Art, Architecture, and Design. The gallery's collection spans over 700 years of art history, including works from the Middle Ages to contemporary art. It is particularly renowned for its holdings of Norwegian art, including the iconic works of Edvard Munch.

History and Establishment

• Founded: The gallery was established in 1837 as part of Norway's efforts to create a national museum for art and culture.
• Original Location: Initially housed in the Royal Palace before moving to its current location in the former Christiania City Hall building (now called the National Gallery building) in 1882.
• Modern Role: It is part of the Norwegian Museum of Art, Architecture and Design, alongside other institutions such as the Museum of Contemporary Art.

Architecture

• Building Design: The National Gallery is housed in a historic neoclassical building designed by the Danish architect Heinrich Ernst. The structure features a grand façade, with a large staircase leading to the entrance and tall columns framing the main doors.
• Renovation and Expansion: Over the years, the building has undergone various renovations and extensions, ensuring its ability to accommodate an ever-growing collection.

Collection Highlights

Edvard Munch:

• The gallery holds one of the largest collections of Munch's works in the world. It includes iconic paintings such as The Scream (though the famous version of The Scream is in the Munch Museum).
• Other notable works include The Madonna, The Sick Child, and The Dance of Life, showcasing Munch's exploration of existential themes like love, death, and anxiety.

Norwegian Art:

• The collection includes works by major Norwegian artists such as J.C. Dahl, Hans Gude, and Harald Sohlberg, reflecting the evolution of Norwegian art from romanticism to modernism.
• Sohlberg’s Winter Night in the Mountains is a notable piece that exemplifies the beauty of Norway’s landscapes.

International Art:

• The National Gallery also holds significant works from European artists. There are pieces by Pablo Picasso, Vincent van Gogh, Claude Monet, and Paul Cézanne, contributing to the breadth of the collection.
• It also contains works from the Dutch Golden Age, such as pieces by Rembrandt and Johannes Vermeer.

Norwegian and Scandinavian Modernism:

• The gallery showcases the development of modernist art in Norway and Scandinavia, with works by Henrik Sørensen, Trygve Kverneland, and Aksel Waldemar Johannessen.

Contemporary Art:

• The National Gallery holds a collection of contemporary art from the late 20th century, though many of these works are currently on display at the Museum of Contemporary Art.

Special Exhibitions and Programs

• The National Gallery hosts rotating temporary exhibitions that cover a wide range of themes and artistic movements. These often include retrospectives of famous artists, themed exhibitions focusing on specific historical periods, and contemporary art exhibitions.
• The museum also organizes educational programs, lectures, and events aimed at engaging a wide audience with the art and artists featured in the collection.

Notable Features

1. The Munch Room:
   • One of the main highlights of the gallery is the dedicated space for Edvard Munch’s works. The room offers an in-depth look at his major themes and stylistic evolution.
2. The Grand Hall:
   • The Grand Hall features large historical works, often by Norwegian and European artists, that reflect the national romanticism and landscapes of Norway.
3. The Sculpture Garden:
   • While the National Gallery itself is primarily focused on paintings and historical art, the adjacent Vigeland Sculpture Park (also in Oslo) features a vast collection of sculptures by Gustav Vigeland, providing a complementary outdoor experience for visitors.

Visiting Information

• Location: The National Gallery is centrally located in Oslo, at Universitetsgata 13, near the Royal Palace and other cultural institutions.
• Opening Hours: The gallery is open year-round, with varying hours depending on the season and special exhibitions.
• Admission: Entrance is typically free for Norwegian citizens and residents, though some special exhibitions may have a fee. Visitors from abroad generally pay an entry fee.
• Accessibility: The gallery is wheelchair accessible, and there are various services and facilities to ensure a welcoming visit for all guests.

Interesting Facts

1. The Scream: While The Scream is housed at the Munch Museum, the National Gallery holds other versions and works by Edvard Munch, exploring the themes of alienation, anxiety, and human vulnerability.
2. Monet and Van Gogh: The collection of Impressionist works is one of the highlights of the international art section, featuring paintings by artists like Monet and Van Gogh, which provide insights into the transition from realism to modern abstraction.
3. Art for the Public: The National Gallery’s mission has always been to make art accessible to the public. Its wide-ranging collection appeals to both art enthusiasts and casual visitors.

The National Gallery of Norway offers an invaluable opportunity to explore Norwegian and European art history, providing insights into key artists, movements, and cultural developments. Whether you're a long-time art lover or a first-time visitor, the National Gallery promises a rich and engaging experience in the heart of Oslo.