Art of Scandinavia Season 1 Episode 1 Dark Night of the Soul

In the Art of Scandinavia season 1 episode 1, titled Dark Night of the Soul, viewers are taken on a journey through the history of Scandinavian art and the evolution of Nordic culture. The episode begins with a look at the mysterious and eerie Nordic landscapes, which have long been an inspiration for Scandinavian artists.

The episode primarily focuses on the 1800s, a period of great change and upheaval in Scandinavian society. This was the era of Romanticism, a cultural movement that celebrated individualism, emotion, and the natural world. Romanticism had a profound impact on the arts, and Scandinavia was no exception.

The episode introduces viewers to several key figures in Scandinavian art, including the Norwegian painter Johan Christian Dahl. Dahl was a leading figure in the Norwegian Romantic movement, and his depictions of the Norwegian landscape captured the sublime beauty and power of nature. His painting "The Eruption of Vesuvius" is a particularly striking example of his work.

The episode also explores the work of Swedish painter Carl Larsson, who was known for his cheerful and colorful depictions of family life. Larsson's paintings celebrated the joys of domesticity and family bonds, and his work remains popular to this day.

The episode also touches on the impact of industrialization on Scandinavian society. With the rise of factories and large-scale production, many artists and thinkers began to question the value of traditional craftsmanship and the role of art in a rapidly changing world. The episode features several examples of artists who took inspiration from the industrial landscape, including Norwegian painter Harald Sohlberg and his haunting depiction of a railway station at night.

One of the most fascinating aspects of the episode is its exploration of the connections between art and spirituality. The title of the episode, "Dark Night of the Soul," is taken from a poem by the Spanish mystic St. John of the Cross. The poem describes a spiritual crisis in which the soul feels lost and alone, but ultimately emerges into a brighter, more enlightened state of being.

This theme is reflected in many of the works featured in the episode, including Danish painter Vilhelm Hammershoi's haunting, empty interiors and Norwegian painter Edvard Munch's powerful depictions of anxiety and despair.

Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to stunning visuals of Scandinavian landscapes and artwork, as well as insightful commentary from experts in the field. The episode provides a compelling look at the rich artistic traditions of Scandinavia, and the ways in which Nordic artists have grappled with issues of identity, spirituality, and societal change.