“The Girls on the Bridge” is a seminal work by the Norwegian artist Edvard Munch, created in 1901. It is an oil on canvas painting that exemplifies the Expressionism movement, with dimensions measuring 136 by 125.5 cm. This genre painting belongs to the collection of the National Gallery in Oslo, Norway. It is a notable work that reflects Munch’s thematic interest in human emotion and psychological depth.
The artwork conveys a scene of young women gathered on a bridge. The composition is characterized by Munch’s distinctive style of bold colors and sweeping curves, contributing to a feeling of emotional resonance rather than strict realism. The central figures of the girls are portrayed in flowing dresses, with one prominently placed in the foreground, her back to the viewer, enhancing the air of mystery and introspection. The brushstrokes and dramatic use of color create a palpable tension in the piece, typical of Munch’s exploration of the human experience. The background features an organic green shape that could be a tree or hill, a body of water, a bright celestial object in the sky, and simplistic architectural elements that define the rural setting. The overall impact of the painting is enigmatic, inviting viewers to ponder the private thoughts and conversations of the figures presented within this striking setting.
