Summer in Aasgaardstrand

Summer in Aasgaardstrand was completed by Edvard Munch in 1889 and is one of many artworks that he produced within this picturesque seaside town that lies relatively close to the city of Oslo.

This fairly brief artwork may have been completed as speed, with some of the areas of paint looking fairly thin. We find a gated fence in front of us, appearing from the blank of areas not filled in, whilst colour is added all around. A yellow house lies behind, along with a thick green bush that jostles for attention. To the further right hand side is more foliage that leads up towards the top of the canvas. In between we enjoy a view straight down to the sea, which allows us to get an idea of our location within this popular town. In the nearest foreground is a small path or road that leads past this property and it is equally as plain as the fence. This may have been a quick work outdoors whilst the artist was staying for a relaxing vacation and just became inspired by the wonderful view.

Munch varied his still across his career but was always very expressive and sought to gain inspiration from his deepest feelings and emotions, as well as from those of others. Artworks such as The Scream would help him to become an international name who remains highly respected today, even though the art world has proven so competitive over the past few centuries.

This painting can be found at the The Museum of Modern Art in Gunma, Japan. They cover both European and Japanese art in good detail and it is one of the finest art galleries to be found in the whole country, particularly from the perspective of more recent styles and art movements. This painting artwork can be considered a real gem within their collection as very few items from Munch's career can now be found anywhere in Asia. In terms of European art, they have focused on Impressionist art particularly, with the likes of Jeufosse, The Effect in the Late Afternoon by Claude Monet, The Church and the Farm at Eragny by Camille Pissarro and Couple Reading by Pierre-Auguste Renoir all to be found here. Whilst these artworks may not be the highest profile within their creator's careers, they do allow this establishment to offer some exceptionally prominent names to its visitors as part of their permanent offering.