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Bård Breivik (1948-2016)

Bård Breivik (23 November 1948 – 10 January 2016) was a Norwegian sculptor and art instructor, renowned for his enigmatic and dynamic works. His journey towards artistic excellence began at the renowned Bergen Academy of Art and Design and St. Martin’s School of Art in London, where he honed his skills and mastered his craft.

Breivik’s passion for teaching and sharing knowledge led him to hold a prestigious professorship at the Royal Institute of Art in Stockholm from 1982 to 1985. However, he never abandoned his own artistic endeavors and continued to create thought-provoking and evocative pieces throughout his life.

His contributions to the art world were highly acclaimed, with the ‘Fibre’ exhibition in the autumn of 1981 receiving widespread recognition. Breivik’s talents also extended to scenography, as demonstrated in his work for the performance ‘Pyramider’ at the Henie-Onstad Art Centre.

In 1982, he was selected to participate in the influential group exhibition ‘The Sleeping Beauty – Art Now, Scandinavia Today’ at the prestigious Guggenheim Museum in New York. Furthermore, in 1984, Breivik’s works were displayed at the Toyama Modern Art Museum in Tokyo as part of an international group exhibition. The following year, he was honored to represent the Nordic region in the Venice Biennale, exhibiting at the Nordic pavilion.

Breivik’s creations transcended the realms of traditional art and pushed the boundaries of imagination. His legacy continues to inspire and fascinate art enthusiasts around the world.

www.ftn-books.com has the VORTEX 2005 exhibition catalog available.

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Edvard Munch (1863-1944)…kisses compared

Schermafbeelding 2017-08-17 om 16.16.22

I do not know exactly what it is that draws me into the paintings by Munch. I tried to analyze their attraction for me. It is not the technique, nor the great way they are painted, but what i like about them is the use of color and the drama they radiate. Take for instance the famous Scream or Puberty. Both ooze atmosphere and “action” in a surreal colored setting.

Or compare the kiss by Much with the kiss by Klimt. The Munch kiss is a sensuous one, whereas the Klimt kiss is styled . Both done in the same decade, but for me the kiss by Munch is more authentic. Certainly the Klimt Kiss is more appealing, because the time we visited the Belvedere and saw it in reality in its special room with perfect lightning it was amazing, but the Munch kiss is a real kiss and must be admired just for that reason.

Munch is still not the household name as he should be, but that is a matter of time. Just a few decades and he will be known all over the world. Not only for a few iconic paintings , but for his complete oeuvre. Munch publications are available at www.ftn-books.com