Mennesker c. 1905

Editor: We're looking at "Mennesker," or "People," a watercolor from around 1905 by Edvard Munch. The faces seem very raw and exposed. How do you interpret this work, especially considering Munch's history? Curator: Well, seen through the lens of social history, this watercolor isn't just a portrait of individuals, but a reflection of the societal anxieties and shifts happening around the turn of the century. Consider the Expressionist style; it wasn't just about representing reality, but about conveying inner emotional states and psychological conditions. The looseness of the watercolor, the almost mask-like quality of the faces, can be seen as a reaction against academic artistic traditions and a growing sense of alienation in modern society. Editor: So you see the figures as a representation of societal alienation, instead of personal anguish? Curator: Not exclusively, but the two are closely linked. Munch's personal experiences certainly informed his work. His mental state doubtlessly led to him painting a universal angst. And, publicly exhibited, these artworks likely further triggered responses. Does this visual language feel politically charged to you at all? Editor: Politically charged...I'm not sure. Maybe in its rejection of traditional portraiture, a statement against the status quo. Curator: Exactly. Think about the role of art institutions in shaping taste and reinforcing social norms. An artist like Munch, with his emotionally raw style, challenged those norms and paved the way for later generations of artists who questioned traditional modes of representation and engagement. I wonder, could you see a relationship with some twentieth century avant-garde art? Editor: It's fascinating to consider this watercolor as more than just an emotional outburst. Thanks, this opened up a different way of looking at the art. Curator: It has helped me connect to Munch's process and choices even more! I have learned from your perspective as well.