KODE 3

Overview

Nestled in the picturesque city of Bergen, Norway, KODE 3 stands as a significant cultural landmark within the larger KODE Art Museums complex. This particular building is renowned for housing the extensive Rasmus Meyer Collection, a treasure trove of Norwegian art that offers a deep dive into the country's artistic heritage. KODE 3 focuses predominantly on the 'Golden Age' of Norwegian painting, spanning from the late 19th to early 20th centuries. It provides visitors with a unique opportunity to explore masterpieces by some of Norway's most celebrated artists, including a remarkable collection of works by Edvard Munch.

As part of KODE Art Museums, one of the largest art institutions in the Nordic region, KODE 3 contributes to a vibrant cultural landscape that encompasses four city-center museum buildings and three composer homes in the surrounding area. The museum's carefully curated exhibitions and intimate spaces allow for a contemplative experience, drawing curious travelers into the heart of Norwegian artistic expression. Its central location along Rasmus Meyers allé makes it an accessible and essential stop for anyone seeking to understand the artistic soul of Bergen.

History & Cultural Background

The story of KODE 3 is deeply intertwined with the vision and generosity of Rasmus Meyer, a prominent Bergen businessman and art collector (1858–1916). Meyer was a forward-thinking patron who amassed an extraordinary collection of Norwegian art, including being among the first significant collectors of Edvard Munch's works. In 1916, his heirs gifted this extensive collection to the City of Bergen, marking it as one of the largest private art collections made public in Norway at that time.

To appropriately house this invaluable donation, a purpose-built museum, designed by architect Ole Landmark, was inaugurated in 1924. This building is what we know today as KODE 3. The establishment of this museum played a crucial role in preserving and showcasing Norway's artistic development, particularly the period characterized by burgeoning national identity and distinct artistic voices. Over the decades, KODE Art Museums has evolved through various mergers and modernizations, officially consolidating in 2007 to form the unified institution it is today, stewarding over 50,000 objects across its diverse collections.

What Makes It Special

KODE 3 holds a distinct place within the art world, primarily due to its exceptional collection of Edvard Munch's art. Often hailed as arguably even better than some other Munch collections, KODE 3 features numerous major works from the Expressionist master. Visitors can intimately experience pieces from Munch's famous 'Frieze of Life' series, which explores profound themes of the human psyche, including works like 'Jealousy', 'Melancholy', 'Women in Three Stages', 'Evening on Karl Johan', and 'By the Death Bed'.

Beyond Munch, the museum shines a spotlight on the 'Golden Age' of Norwegian art. It presents fundamental works by pivotal Norwegian artists such as J.C. Dahl, Harriet Backer, Erik Werenskiold, and Gerhard Munthe, whose paintings skillfully capture the Norwegian landscape and daily life. The inclusion of historical interiors from the Bergen area adds another layer of uniqueness, allowing visitors to glimpse into the past and understand the cultural context in which these artists lived and created. This blend of world-class Expressionism and insightful national art history, presented in an architecturally significant building, truly sets KODE 3 apart.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

The very existence of KODE 3 is a testament to the passion of individuals like Rasmus Meyer. His dedication to collecting and preserving Norwegian art, especially at a time when Munch was not universally recognized, speaks volumes about his cultural foresight. Meyer's foresight in acquiring such a comprehensive array of Munch's work, spanning all his artistic periods, has ensured that Bergen possesses an unparalleled insight into the artist's evolution.

One delightful detail is the museum's deliberate presentation of its collections. The rooms are designed to feel intimate, fostering a personal connection between the viewer and the artwork. While KODE 3 proudly hosts a significant Munch collection, it is worth noting that Edvard Munch's iconic 'The Scream' is not housed here, but rather in other Norwegian institutions. However, the quality and breadth of the Munch works available still make it a must-visit for enthusiasts. The museum also sometimes integrates contemporary artworks alongside older pieces, creating an engaging dialogue between different eras. For those with an eye for historical detail, the elegant Blumenthal Room with its ornate 18th-century wall and ceiling paintings is a noteworthy feature.

Visitor Perspective

Visiting KODE 3 is an experience designed for contemplation and discovery. The museum's atmosphere is often described as serene, providing a quiet escape perfect for focused appreciation of art, especially on weekday mornings when it tends to be less crowded. A thoughtful visit to KODE 3 typically takes between one to two hours, offering ample time to absorb the masterpieces and historical interiors.

For convenience, a single admission ticket grants access to all KODE Art Museums, allowing visitors to explore the entire complex over two consecutive days if desired. Guided tours are available, with English tours often offered daily during the summer months, providing deeper insights into the collections. Located conveniently in Bergen's city center, KODE 3 is easily accessible, making it an ideal destination for those keen to immerse themselves in Norway's rich artistic legacy and witness the profound works of its celebrated painters.