After a series of successful exhibitions in 2010, works of acclaimed figurative painter Håkon Gullvåg's return to China in February 2011. First out this time is a venue of historic proportions.
Norwegian painter returns to China
The exhibition ”In Norwegian Style” opened Thursday February 3rd at the Taian Museum in Shandong Province, along with the Chinese New Year. ”In Norwegian Style” was first exhibited in 2010 during ”Norway Days” in Chongqing. ”Norway Days” was arranged by Norwegian South Trøndelag County and Chongqing Municipality which are engaged in a sister cooperation focusing on areas such as environment and education. In December 2010 the exhibition was launched at the Luoyang Museum in Henan Province. The works will be on display in Taian until February 18th.
The exhibition constitutes of 32 graphic prints and oil paintings by Håkon Gullvåg, 17 photos describing landscape and lifestyle in Trøndelag county, and 10 photos from the Embassy’s project ”Norway through Chinese Eyes”. The film ”Destination Norway” was also shown as a part of the exhibition.
Historic Grounds
Taian Museum (Dai Temple) is situated in the southern part of the Tai-mountain, one of five important mountains in Taoist philosophy. The building complex dates back 2000 years and is of high historical value. The surrounding mountain area is included on the UNESCO World Heritage List. This is the first time the museum accepts an international exhibition.
Håkon Gullvåg was born in 1959 in Trondheim, Norway’s ancient capital and the administrative capital of South Trøndelag County. He has established himself as one of Norway’s most renowned figurative painters since his breakthrough in 1983. His oil portraits of various famous Norwegian persona, including the dramatist Henrik Ibsen, are considered to be among his most important works. Gullvåg is also considered to have re-invented religious art in Norway and has decorated several churches. In later years the artist has also produced a large body of graphic print works.
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