Edvard Munch
- Born:
- December 12, 1863, Løten, Norway
- Died:
- January 23, 1944, Ekely, near Oslo, Norway
- Nationality:
- Norwegian
- Profession(s):
- Painter, Printmaker
Early Life and Education
- Edvard Munch's early life was marked by illness and death in his family, which profoundly impacted his artistic themes.
- His mother died when he was five, and his sister Sophie died when he was fifteen, both from tuberculosis.
- He briefly studied engineering before dedicating himself to art.
- Munch received early artistic instruction from Christian Krohg.
Career and Major Achievements
- Munch developed a unique style that prefigured Expressionism.
- He explored themes of anxiety, love, death, and melancholy.
- His controversial exhibitions in the 1890s brought him both notoriety and recognition.
- He spent time in Paris and Berlin, absorbing influences from Post-Impressionism and Symbolism.
- A nervous breakdown in 1908 led to a period of reflection and a shift in his artistic style.
Notable Works
- The Scream (1893): Perhaps Munch's most iconic work, symbolizing universal anxiety.
- Madonna (1894-95): Explores themes of sexuality and death.
- The Sick Child (1885-86): A poignant depiction of his sister Sophie's illness.
- Vampire (1893-94): Represents the destructive power of love.
- Anxiety (1894): Depicts a crowd consumed by fear and uncertainty.
Legacy and Impact
Edvard Munch's artistic contributions cemented his place as a pioneer of modern art, particularly within the Expressionist movement. As demonstrated through the "edvard munch biography obras expressionismo" genre itself, his influence on subsequent generations of artists is undeniable. His exploration of psychological themes and his innovative use of color and form continue to resonate with audiences today.