Artwork

Building Workers in the Studio

Building Workers in the Studio, by Edvard Munch, oil, 1920
Building Workers in the Studio, by Edvard Munch, oil, 1920

Building Workers in the Studio is an oil painting by the Post-Impressionist artist Edvard Munch. It dates from 1920 and is held in the collection of the Munch Museum.

About this work

Overview

Building Workers in the Studio is a 1920 oil painting by Edvard Munch, depicting two laborers at work within a studio setting characterized by vibrant, expressive colors.

Subject & Meaning

The painting focuses on the everyday activity of two workers, conveying a sense of dynamism and engagement through their poses and the surrounding environment. The subject matter reflects Munch's interest in capturing ordinary life alongside his more psychologically intense works.

Technique & Style

Executed with bold brushstrokes and a palette dominated by shades of yellow, blue, and green, the work exemplifies Munch's post-impressionist style, emphasizing emotional expression over realism. The simple yet expressive portrayal of the workers aligns with his development of a highly personal artistic voice.

History & Provenance

Created in 1920, the painting is now part of the Munch Museum's collection, reflecting the institution's comprehensive holdings of the artist's oeuvre.

Context

While Munch is renowned for psychologically charged works like *The Scream*, *Building Workers in the Studio* situates itself within his broader exploration of everyday life, influenced by his artistic training in Oslo and associations with nihilist circles.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Edvard Munch

Artist

Edvard Munch

Edvard Munch ( MUUNK; Norwegian: ; 12 December 1863 – 23 January 1944) was a Norwegian painter.

Munch Museum

Museum

Munch Museum

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This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Munch Museum open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.