The university's fundamental task – enlightenment – expressed as a majestic sunrise.
Listen to the text:
The burning sun that rises over a Southern Norwegian archipelago is among Edvard Munch's most famous motives.
The painting radiates light, warmth and nature: a monumental, yet realistic depiction of the force of life and creativity.
In thick layers of paint and with strong, bright colours, Munch pulls us into his vision of light – and enlightenment.
The Sun is the centrepiece of Munch's Aula decorations, and sends its rays out to the canvases on both sides.
?I saw the sun rise above the cliffs – I painted the sun.?
– Edvard Munch
Details
- Technique and materials: Oil on canvas
- Date: 1911
- Dimensions: 455 x 780 cm
- Woll: 970
- UiO.K: 01399
Edvard Munch's Aula paintings
The decoration of the University Aula in Oslo was among Edvard Munch's most comprehensive art projects, and a prestigious and controversial assignment in its time.
The 11 pictures are the only expressionist monumental paintings preserved in their original context. The motifs show the university's activities and history, enlightenment and the great, eternal forces of nature and mankind.
The Aula decoration is part of UiO's art collection.