“Selvportrett”, a portrait executed in 1926, is a work of the renowned artist Edvard Munch. Belonging to the Expressionism movement, the artwork is a testament to the style’s emphasis on subjective emotion over realistic portrayal.
The artwork vividly exhibits the defining characteristics of Expressionism through its turbulent and vivid use of color, as well as its apparent disinterest in realistic representation. It features a depiction of the artist himself, with a striking, confrontational gaze that engages the viewer. The brushstrokes are loose, spontaneous and seem to be applied with great energy, which reflects the emotional state of the subject.
Color plays a significant role in conveying emotion in this work, with stark contrasts and non-naturalistic hues dominating the visage of the figure. This use of color to express internal psychic states is hallmark to Expressionism and Munch’s oeuvre. The rough, almost aggressive application of paint, and the bold contours that define the figure, underscore the intensity of the subject’s expression. Shadows and highlights are not merely representative of light, but are exaggerated to reveal an inner turmoil or intensity. Through this self-portrait, Munch allows the viewer a glimpse into the artist’s psyche, marking this piece as a profound example of introspective and expressive art.
