Edvard Munch: Magic of the North

Edvard Munch's radical modernity in painting challenged his contemporaries in Berlin around 1900. The Association of Berlin Artists invited him to an exhibition in 1892, where the public was shocked by his colorful, sketch-like pictures. He moved to the city on the Spree and learned the techniques for printed graphics, presenting paintings in several continuous series that would become central to his oeuvre. The concept of the "Magic of the North" was no longer associated with romantic or naturalistic fjord landscapes, but with Munch's psychologically concentrated pictorial worlds.

Format: Hardback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 28 December 2023
Publisher: Hirmer Verlag

Edvard Munch's revolutionary approach to painting posed a significant challenge to his contemporaries, particularly in the vibrant art scene of Berlin around 1900. The Norwegian Symbolist artist exerted a profound influence on this artistic community, leaving a lasting impact on its development. In exchange for this support, Munch was able to further refine and expand his artistic endeavors. The publication in question is lavishly illustrated, providing a comprehensive and knowledgeable account of Munch's life and his connection with Berlin.

In 1892, the Association of Berlin Artists extended an invitation to the relatively unknown Edvard Munch (1863–1944) for an exhibition. The audience was astounded by the vibrant, sketch-like paintings showcased. Munch reveled in the public's excitement and relocated to the city on the Spree, where he intermittently resided until 1908. During his time in Berlin, he honed his skills in printed graphics and presented his first continuous series of paintings, which would later become integral to his artistic oeuvre.

In Berlin, the concept of the "Magic of the North" (Stefan Zweig) underwent a remarkable transformation. It ceased to be associated solely with romantic or naturalistic fjord landscapes and instead became intertwined with Munch's psychologically intense pictorial worlds. This shift in perception marked a significant milestone in the artistic landscape of the city, as Munch's unique vision and artistic expression captivated the hearts and minds of his contemporaries.

Through his prolific output and his unwavering dedication to his craft, Edvard Munch established himself as a pivotal figure in the history of modern art. His innovative techniques, his profound emotional expression, and his ability to capture the essence of the human experience continue to inspire and influence artists across generations. Munch's legacy in Berlin remains a testament to his profound impact on the artistic community and his enduring contribution to the world of art.

Weight: 1452g
Dimension: 224 x 290 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783777442181