Permanent Collection

Overview

Deep within the striking architecture of MUNCH in Oslo, Norway, lies its monumental Permanent Collection, a treasure trove dedicated to the life and enduring legacy of Edvard Munch, one of the world's most influential artists. This isn't merely a collection of artworks; it is an intimate journey into the mind and emotions of a master whose art continues to resonate with contemporary audiences. The museum, which opened in its magnificent new Bjørvika location in 2021, houses the world's largest assembly of Munch's works, offering an unparalleled opportunity to explore his artistic evolution and profound themes.

The Permanent Collection at MUNCH showcases the full breadth of Munch's artistry, from his early experimental pieces to his later, deeply symbolic works. Visitors can encounter iconic masterpieces like 'The Scream' and 'Madonna', alongside lesser-known but equally powerful paintings, drawings, and prints. It's an immersive experience designed to captivate and enlighten, revealing the depth of Munch's contribution to modern art and his relentless exploration of the human condition. Beyond Munch's own prolific output, the museum also proudly presents collections from other significant Norwegian artists like Rolf Stenersen, Amaldus Nielsen, and Ludvig O. Ravensberg, enriching the historical tapestry of Norwegian art.

History & Cultural Background

The very existence of MUNCH's Permanent Collection is a testament to Edvard Munch's foresight and generosity. In 1940, amidst the turmoil of World War II and the Nazi occupation of Norway, Munch bequeathed his entire artistic estate to the City of Oslo. This extraordinary act ensured that his life's work, comprising thousands of pieces, would be preserved and made accessible to the public, safeguarding it from potential confiscation or destruction by the Nazi regime. Following his death in 1944, the city honored his will, leading to the establishment of the original Munch Museum, which first opened its doors in 1963, a century after the artist's birth.

The collection moved to its current, purpose-built home in Bjørvika in 2021, a relocation that dramatically expanded its capacity to display and preserve Munch's vast oeuvre. This new chapter allows for a more comprehensive presentation of his art, reflecting its global significance and placing it within a broader art historical context. The museum's commitment extends beyond mere display; it is also a vital center for research into Munch's life and work, continuously shedding new light on his artistic processes and philosophical inquiries.

What Makes It Special

What sets MUNCH's Permanent Collection apart is its sheer scale and depth. With nearly 1,200 paintings, over 7,000 drawings, and more than 18,000 prints, it represents virtually all of Edvard Munch's artistic output. This comprehensive nature allows visitors to trace the thematic and stylistic developments across his entire career, offering profound insights into his unique vision. The museum's innovative exhibition design often presents Munch's works in dialogue with those of his contemporaries, highlighting the artistic currents and intellectual debates of his time.

One of the collection's most compelling features is the meticulous care taken with its most fragile pieces. For instance, versions of 'The Scream', an icon of existential angst, are displayed in a special rotunda, rotating for just one hour at a time to ensure their long-term preservation. Furthermore, a dedicated double-height gallery showcases Munch's monumental paintings, such as 'The Sun', originally created for the University of Oslo's Ceremonial Hall, allowing their grand scale to be fully appreciated.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

Edvard Munch was an artist deeply intertwined with his surroundings, and the collection tells many stories about his life and the cultural landscape of Norway. Imagine Munch, a visionary artist, meticulously cataloging his works and leaving them to his city, foreseeing the need for their protection. His personal belongings, photographs, and even his printing plates are part of the vast collection, offering a rare glimpse into his creative process and daily life.

A fun fact for curious travelers: Munch was a keen experimenter with photography, often taking 'selfies' long before the term existed, using himself as a model to explore self-portraiture in new ways. His fascination with nature's cyclical patterns and themes of transformation also runs through his works, as seen in exhibitions that delve into his cosmic worldview and how he captured the inner life of trees, stones, and seasons.

Visitor Perspective

For visitors, MUNCH's Permanent Collection is an experience that transcends a typical museum visit. It's an opportunity to connect on a deeply emotional level with art that explores universal themes of love, loss, anxiety, and hope. The thoughtfully curated exhibitions, often spanning multiple floors, guide you through Munch's artistic journey, making his complex narratives accessible and engaging.

The new Bjørvika building itself is a modern architectural marvel, providing a fitting contemporary home for Munch's timeless art. It's designed to offer ample space for reflection, making it possible to linger before masterpieces and absorb their powerful emotional impact. Whether you are an art aficionado or a curious traveler, exploring the Permanent Collection at MUNCH is a profound encounter with the soul of a nation's most celebrated artist and a definitive moment in art history.