KODE 3

Overview

Nestled along the picturesque Lille Lungegårdsvann lake in Bergen, Norway, KODE Art Museums collectively form one of the largest and most significant cultural institutions in the Nordic region. Within this impressive ensemble of buildings, KODE 3 stands out, offering a deep dive into Norway's rich artistic heritage. Often referred to as the Rasmus Meyer Collection, KODE 3 is a testament to the vision of a dedicated art patron and a sanctuary for some of the most compelling works of Norwegian art from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It is particularly renowned for housing a substantial collection by the iconic Edvard Munch, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking to understand the foundational currents of modern Norwegian painting. Beyond Munch, KODE 3 also proudly showcases masterpieces from other prominent artists of the Norwegian Golden Age, alongside fascinating historical interiors that offer a glimpse into Bergen's past.

History & Cultural Background

The story of KODE 3 is intricately linked to Rasmus Meyer, a Bergen-born businessman and philanthropist whose passion for art led him to amass an extraordinary collection. Meyer was an early and ardent admirer of Edvard Munch's work, diligently acquiring key pieces from various periods of the artist's career. His foresight meant that he collected major works by Munch, providing a comprehensive overview of the artist's profound contribution to expressionism. In 1917, after Meyer's passing, his children generously donated this vast and invaluable collection of art and historical furniture to the city of Bergen. To appropriately house this magnificent gift, a dedicated building was commissioned. Completed in 1924, the structure of KODE 3 was designed by the architect Ole Landmark specifically for the purpose of exhibiting the Rasmus Meyer Collection, ensuring that the artworks were presented in a setting worthy of their significance.

What Makes It Special

What truly sets KODE 3 apart is its remarkably intimate and focused presentation of Edvard Munch's art. Visitors often find the experience here even more profound than some larger institutions, as the museum’s curated spaces allow for a close, personal encounter with Munch’s powerful and often unsettling psychological landscapes. The collection includes several pivotal works from his iconic 'Frieze of Life' series, such as 'Jealousy', 'Melancholy', 'Women in Three Stages', 'Evening on Karl Johan', and 'By the Death Bed'. This makes KODE 3 home to the world's third-largest collection of Munch's paintings, a truly impressive feat for a museum outside of Oslo. Beyond Munch, KODE 3 is also a vital repository for the Norwegian Golden Age of art, featuring works by other luminaries like J. C. Dahl, Harriet Backer, Erik Werenskiold, and Gerhard Munthe, whose contributions shaped Norway’s artistic identity between 1880 and 1905. The inclusion of complete rooms of period-specific historical interiors from the Bergen area adds another layer of depth, allowing visitors to experience the cultural context in which these artworks were created.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

Rasmus Meyer's dedication to Edvard Munch was quite forward-thinking for his time. While Munch is now globally recognized, his early career and often introspective, sometimes haunting, portrayals of the human psyche were not always universally embraced. Meyer's unwavering belief in Munch's genius led him to acquire significant pieces that capture the artist's 'rollercoaster psyche' and artistic evolution. Imagine walking through the very halls designed to showcase these pieces a century ago, feeling the echoes of that passionate patronage. The intimate scale of KODE 3, often described as a 'little mansion', creates an atmosphere where each brushstroke and detail feels close enough to touch, fostering a deeper connection with the art. The museum is part of the larger KODE complex, which features four distinct buildings, each contributing to Bergen's vibrant art scene. This collective effort makes KODE one of the Nordic countries' largest museums for art, design, craft, and music, managing a vast collection of over 43,000 objects.

Visitor Perspective

For the curious traveler, visiting KODE 3 offers a deeply enriching cultural experience. It’s an opportunity to slow down and truly absorb the emotional resonance of some of Norway’s most important artworks. The museum's layout, designed specifically for its collection, provides an unhurried journey through the artistic and cultural landscape of a bygone era. You’re not just seeing paintings; you're stepping into the artistic and personal world of figures like Edvard Munch, understanding the cultural milieu that shaped their visions. Given its prime location in central Bergen, along the serene Lille Lungegårdsvann, KODE 3 is easily accessible, making it a perfect addition to any itinerary. A single admission ticket often grants access to all the KODE museums, allowing for a comprehensive exploration of Bergen's artistic treasures. Whether you're an art connoisseur or simply a traveler with an interest in history and culture, KODE 3 provides a meaningful encounter with the heart and soul of Norwegian art. It's a place where the artistic legacies of the past speak clearly to the present, inviting reflection and appreciation.