Munch Collection

Overview

Deep within the heart of Bergen, Norway, the KODE Art Museums house a treasure trove for art enthusiasts: the extraordinary Munch Collection. This collection stands as the world's third-largest assembly of works by the pioneering Expressionist Edvard Munch, offering an unparalleled journey into the artist's profound vision. Located primarily in KODE 3, also known as Rasmus Meyer's collection, this dedicated space invites visitors to immerse themselves in Munch's powerful explorations of human emotion, life, and death. It's not merely a display of art, but a window into the soul of one of Norway's most celebrated figures, presented within a museum complex renowned for its rich artistic and cultural offerings.

History & Cultural Background

The foundation of KODE's Munch Collection is steeped in a fascinating history, largely thanks to the foresight and passion of Bergen industrialist Rasmus Meyer. In the early 20th century, Meyer embarked on a remarkable endeavor, meticulously acquiring Edvard Munch's artworks in close dialogue with the artist himself. His aim was to create a collection that comprehensively charted Munch's artistic evolution, encompassing all phases of his career up to that point. Following Meyer's passing in 1916, his children generously donated this significant collection of art and historical furniture to the city of Bergen, fulfilling their father's dream of a public institution where these works could be shared with a broader audience. The collection was further enriched over the years through strategic purchases by the Bergen Visual Arts Museum and notably, a substantial gift from collector Rolf Stenersen in 1971. This layered history ensures that the collection at KODE offers a remarkably diverse and complete overview of Munch's creative output.

What Makes It Special

What truly distinguishes the Munch Collection at KODE is its sheer breadth and depth, positioning it as the third-largest in the world. It boasts an impressive array of over 100 works on paper and 50 paintings, capturing the essence of Munch's artistic genius. Among its most compelling highlights are several central masterpieces from Munch's seminal 'Frieze of Life' series. This ambitious project, which Munch began in 1889, sought to depict the inner life of modern man through universal themes of love, anxiety, and death. Visitors can witness powerful works such as 'Jealousy', 'Melancholy', 'Woman in Three Stages', and 'Evening on Karl Johan Street', all integral to this profound series. Beyond these iconic pieces, the collection also showcases earlier, more 'realist' works like 'Morning' and 'Summer Night', which marked pivotal moments in his career, alongside later expressions such as 'Winter Night'. The chronological arrangement, especially within KODE 3's Rasmus Meyer building, allows for a unique appreciation of Munch's stylistic development and his relentless pursuit of emotional truth through art.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

The story behind the Munch Collection in Bergen is as compelling as the art itself. Imagine Rasmus Meyer, a devoted collector, engaging in direct correspondence and meetings with Edvard Munch, carefully selecting pieces that would tell the full story of the artist's journey. This personal connection between collector and creator adds an intimate layer to the collection, making each artwork feel like a chapter in a shared narrative. Munch's own intention for his 'Frieze of Life' was to 'have life explained to me and its meaning... (and) to help others make clear life to them', a testament to the universal resonance he sought in his art. The continuity of the collection, from Meyer's initial vision to Stenersen's later contributions, reflects Bergen's enduring appreciation for Munch's powerful expressions. While Oslo's museums hold other famous versions of some works, Bergen's collection provides a unique perspective on Munch's stylistic evolution, showcasing pieces that illuminate different facets of his artistic process.

Visitor Perspective

For any traveler exploring Bergen, a visit to the Munch Collection at KODE is an experience that transcends mere sightseeing. Housed primarily in KODE 3, the Rasmus Meyer building, the setting itself is part of the charm, offering a delightful journey through Norwegian art history. As you walk through the galleries, you're not just observing paintings; you're stepping into the emotional landscapes Munch so masterfully created. The permanent exhibition thoughtfully guides you through his early naturalistic works, his formal and color experiments, and finally, his groundbreaking 'Frieze of Life'. It's an opportunity to connect with art that is both deeply personal and universally human. KODE Art Museums, as a whole, are one of the largest and most significant cultural institutions in the Nordic region, encompassing four art museums and several composer homes. This rich context ensures that your encounter with Munch's masterpieces is part of a broader, enriching cultural immersion in Bergen.