The exhibition features surveys Munch’s career in its entirety, from 1880 to 1944, showcasing his artistic achievement in its true richness and diversity. Beginning with the artist’s early portraits and genre scenes, the exhibition charts Munch’s move away from Norwegian naturalism toward an unprecedented exploration of modern existential experience. The exhibition was opened on Sunday February 19 by Queen Sonja of Norway.
Through 87 paintings and 50 works on paper representing each phase of his career, the exhibition reveals Munch’s struggle to translate personal trauma into universal terms and, in the process, comprehend the fundamental components of human existence: birth, love, and death.
The exhibition is accompanied by a major publication that includes several essays by distinguished art historians and extensive documentation of Munch’s art and career.
"Edvard Munch: The Modern Life of the Soul" runs through May 8 and coincides with Scandinavia House's "Edvard Munch: Symbolism in Print, Highlights from the Museum of Modern Art." Museum of Modern Art, 11 W. 53rd St. www.moma.org or 212-708-9400.