As an art historian with a keen interest in the expressionist movement, I have often found myself delving into the depths of Edvard Munch's "The Scream," a piece that has become an iconic representation of human anxiety and existential dread. The artwork is a testament to Munch's ability to capture the essence of raw emotion and convey it through the power of visual art. It is a piece that resonates with audiences across the globe, transcending the boundaries of time and culture.
"The Scream" is not a singular work but rather exists in four distinct versions, each created by Munch in different media. These versions include two painted works, a pastel, and a black-and-white lithograph. Each version carries its own unique qualities and nuances, yet they all share the same haunting central theme.
The first painted version, which dates back to 1893, is currently housed in the National Gallery in Oslo, Norway. This particular piece is often the one that comes to mind when people think of "The Scream." It features a figure with an agonized expression, standing on a bridge with a vibrant orange sky in the background. The use of color in this version is particularly striking, with the orange and blue hues creating a sense of turmoil and unease.
The second painted version, created in 1910, is held by the Munch Museum, also located in Oslo. While similar in composition to the first, this version has subtle differences in the color palette and the expression of the central figure. The sky in this version is more muted, with a focus on blues and greys, which adds a different layer of emotional depth to the piece.
In addition to the painted works, there is a pastel version of "The Scream" from 1893, which is also held by the Munch Museum. Pastel as a medium allows for a softer, more delicate rendering of the image, yet it still manages to convey the same sense of distress and despair. The pastel version is notable for its more vibrant colors and the presence of additional figures in the background, which adds to the overall narrative of the piece.
Lastly, there is a black-and-white lithograph version, which was created by Munch in 1895. This version is unique in that it is a print, which means it was produced through a process that allowed for multiple copies to be made. The lithograph is characterized by its stark contrast between black and white, which serves to heighten the drama and intensity of the scene.
"read more >>

Edvard Munch created the four versions in various media. The National Gallery in Oslo, Norway, holds one of two painted versions (1893, shown here). The Munch Museum holds the other painted version (1910, see gallery, below) and a pastel version from 1893.read more >>