Most of you would already be familiar with Nordic Bakery and their delicious baked delights, especially their cinnamon buns.
Nordic Bakery recently collaborated with Dulwich Picture Gallery in conjunction with their exhibition of Norwegian artist Nikolai Astrup, where they also have a photography exhibition specially commissioned by the gallery showcasing Astrup’s Norway at the Dorset Street store.
I had the opportunity to partake in the art breakfast to celebrate this collaboration, which started with a brief talk from some of the curators from Dulwich Picture Gallery, whilst we dived into the basket of fresh cinnamon buns and other tasty treats.
After the breakfast, we were whisked away in our own private minibus to Dulwich Picture Gallery – I have never quite ventured into this part of town, which was actually quite a quaint area.
Dulwich Picture Gallery is the world’s first purpose-built public art gallery: it was founded in 1811 when Sir Francis Bourgeois RA bequeathed his collection of old masters “for the inspection of the public”. The building was designed and built by the leading architect Sir John Soane (1753-1837) and allows visitors to experience exceptional art in an intimate welcoming setting.
They run a unique programme of innovative exhibitions that approaches art and artists from new and different angles; introducing new artists to the UK, or rediscovering forgotten famous artists.
Known as one of the most renowned Norwegian artists, Astrup was an expressionist whose work transformed the rugged Norwegian landscape into vivid, fairytale-like works of art.
The first of Astrup’s work outside of Norway, this exhibition brings over 90 oil paintings and prints, including works from private collections that have never been exhibited before. His works were inspired by his home in Jolster where he grew up, his farmstead at Sandalstrand and the Lake Jolstravatnet – each one unique, expressing different moods with the change of seasons.
There is also a Forest Folk digital display held in the Mausoleum that plays upon the theme of metamorphosis prevalent in Astrup’s work. The display features two huge screens on which forest creatures respond to visitors’ movement.
These stunning pieces are best appreciated in person so I would highly recommend a visit – a great way to immerse yourself in some culture, whether on your own, with friends or even for a family day out.
The exhibition runs from 5th February until 16th May 2016 – you can check out the Dulwich Picture Gallery website for more information.
The Cheekster, signing out x
