Art of the Nordic Nations: Modernism, Freedom and Identity, 1870–1950

Modern art from the Nordic countries – Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Finland and Iceland – tends to be represented by a few famous artists, and an aesthetic known for combining originality and continuity of tradition. Nevertheless, the region is far from homogeneous. Each country has its own artistic language, culture and history, sometimes co-existing with its neighbours in harmony, sometimes engaging them in hard-fought conflict.

This extensively illustrated survey offers a new history of Nordic art, from the emergence of Impressionism in the 1870s, through the avant-garde experiments of the early decades of the 20th century and onward to the Second World War and beyond. A broad range of artists are featured, some familiar and others less renowned: Anders Zorn and Hilma af Klimt, Vilhelm Hammershøi and Franciska Clausen, Edvard Munch and Harriet Backer, Akseli Gallen-Kallela and Fanny Churberg, Finnur Jónsson and Öyvind Fahlström. Each artist’s work is vividly placed in the context of their homeland as well as the international art movements of the time. The significant role of women artists is also showcased, chronicling their artistic legacy as well as their broader social contributions. The result is a comprehensive account of modern Nordic art in one impressive volume that is sure to become a definitive account.