Frontal Self Portrait 1998

Here, Odd Nerdrum presents us with a self-portrait, employing oil on canvas to conjure a visage that seems to emerge from the shadows of history. Nerdrum's work often stands in opposition to contemporary art, embracing instead a style reminiscent of the Old Masters like Rembrandt. This portrait is no exception. The androgynous figure, draped in simple, dark cloth, confronts us with an expression that is both vulnerable and defiant, prompting questions about identity. The plain, almost archaic clothing and the head wrapping, push against the grain of modern self-representation, evoking a sense of timelessness, while remaining historically ambiguous. Nerdrum has spoken of his desire to paint not what he sees, but what he feels, seeking to create images that resonate with universal human emotions. In a society that often privileges novelty, Nerdrum returns us to the past, inviting contemplation on our place within the continuum of human experience. This self-portrait isn't just a likeness; it’s a mirror reflecting our collective anxieties, uncertainties, and the enduring quest for self-understanding.