If you've never had an opportunity to visit Vigeland Sculpture Park, just on the outskirts of Oslo, Norway, here are a few photos from our trip to Oslo a few weeks ago. Jeff is half Norwegian on his mother's side, and he finally got to see the land of his ancestors. He thought the country beautiful but didn't care so much for the Norse fixation on fish for most meals. I have to say, on the bus from Torp airport, someone opened a packet of smoked salmon and munched on it on the drive to town. Had me salivating the entire way!
I loved Vigeland and could easily have spent all day there. On the other hand, my daughter Anna said, after a brief hour in the park, "I don't like it--isn't it kind of creepy to stare at a bunch of naked people, standing around in different poses?" I guess art appreciation truly is a matter of individual taste.
One of the things I noticed--Vigeland sculpted men, women, and children of all ages and shapes. Not only people in the prime of life, but those near life's end and just at the beginning. Genius, as far as I'm concerned.
4 comments:
I enjoyed Vigeland immensely. The best was the baby doing the temper tantrum. I'm sure you heard the story about how it was stolen for a while, causing a national uproar....
I loved Vigeland too. Went there back in 1995 and still count it up among my favorite "art encounters". I also really appreciated the fact that he included all stages of life in his work...
I have never heard of this place - but it looks fascinating! Thanks so much for the pictures. I'd love to go there!
Ginger, Betsy, and Beth--I wish I could go back and visit Vigeland in your company! I'll have to look up the story on the baby, didn't realize it'd been stolen and recovered.
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