Known for his unique depictions of western Norway’s lush landscapes and traditional ways of life, Nikolai Astrup (1880-1928) was one of the country’s most innovative painters, printmakers and horticulturalists. While his art was celebrated in his home country, Astrup was not well known outside of its borders. This has begun to change in recent years as the world discovers his work through new exhibitions and books. In 2016, Astrup made his London debut at the Dulwich Picture Gallery—nearly 90 years after his death.
This summer, Astrup’s paintings will be on display in the United States. Nikolai Astrup: Visions of Norway opens on June 19 at the Clark Art Institute in Williamstown, Massachusetts. It’s the first North American museum exhibition focused on the Norwegian painter. View more than 85 of his works on display until September 19.
You may recognize Astrup’s name from the September 2020 issue of Viking. In the story, we highlight fascinating facts about the artist, revealed through his art. Astrup devoted his career to the celebration of western Norway. He was inspired by the mountainous landscape, lush vegetation and distinct atmosphere. Best known for his luminous paintings of Midsummer nights, Astrup’s landscapes evoke the atmosphere and changing seasons of his homeland of Jølster. Together with Edvard Munch, he expanded the artistic possibilities of the woodcut, blurring the boundaries between prints and paintings.
To view a digital collection of Astrup’s prints, sketches, letters and notes, this website—developed by the KODE Art Museums of Bergen—has been cataloging all artwork by the legendary artist.
If you’re in the Bergen area, take a day trip to Astruptunet where Astrup’s home, studio and farm are preserved as a museum open to the public.