Else Hagen: Exploring Feminist Themes Through Vibrant Paintings
Norwegian artist Else Hagen’s work delves deep into the complexities of female psychology, often highlighting themes of feminist angst and tension in her vibrant and intimate midcentury oil paintings. While Hagen is best known for her monumental installations, her current retrospective at the National Museum in Oslo sheds light on her lesser-known but equally compelling canvases that explore the relationships, struggles, and emotions of women.
In pieces like “The Secret” and “Floral Priest Collar,” Hagen captures the inner turmoil and hidden desires of her female subjects with striking colors and powerful imagery. These paintings depict women grappling with issues of neglect, objectification, and societal expectations, all while maintaining a sense of defiance and strength. Through her art, Hagen challenges traditional notions of femininity and elevates the experiences of women to a place of dignity and complexity.
One of the most striking aspects of Hagen’s work is her ability to infuse ordinary scenes with energy and emotion. In “The Roles Assigned,” she portrays a scene of conflict and vulnerability among three nude women, surrounded by crumpled newsprint and masked figures. The tension in the painting is palpable, drawing the viewer into the drama unfolding on the canvas.
Hagen’s self-portrait from 1940 further showcases her modern and assertive approach to art. With half of her face painted in warm tones and the other in cool hues, she presents a dualistic image that reflects her own inner strength and complexity. Like her body of work, Hagen’s self-portrait exudes a sense of modernity and self-assurance that is both timeless and empowering.
Overall, Hagen’s retrospective at the National Museum offers a glimpse into the inner world of women during a time when their experiences were often overlooked or dismissed. Through her bold and evocative paintings, Hagen brings to light the struggles and triumphs of women in a way that is both raw and empowering. Her work serves as a testament to the enduring power of art to challenge societal norms and elevate marginalized voices.
The exhibition “Else Hagen: Between People” is on display at the National Museum in Oslo until January 26. Curated by Ăystein Ustvedt and organized by several prominent art institutions in Norway, the retrospective is a must-see for anyone interested in exploring the depths of feminist art and the enduring legacy of a trailblazing artist like Else Hagen.
