Edvard Munch, The Girls on the Bridge, 1927

A remarkable exhibition in Rome delves into the creative process of the Norwegian artist, balancing emotion and style

More than 20 years after the last major exhibition in Rome dedicated to Edvard Munch (Løten, Dec. 12, 1863 – Oslo, Jan. 23, 1944), and following the success of the Milan showcase at Palazzo Reale, the visionary Norwegian artist returns to Italy with Munch. Il grido interiore, the most extensive retrospective ever staged. The exhibition will be hosted at Palazzo Bonaparte from February 11 to June 2, 2025.

Inaugurated by President of the Republic Sergio Mattarella and HM Queen Sonja of Norway, the exhibition is curated by Patricia G. Berman, with scientific collaboration from Costantino D’Orazio. Featuring 100 masterpieces on loan from the MUNCH Museum in Oslo, the show is organized under the patronage of the Royal Norwegian Embassy in Rome.

«In my art, I have tried to clarify life and its meaning for myself. I also intended to help others explain life for themselves» Munch once wrote, encapsulating his deeply introspective approach to painting. A pioneer of Expressionism and a leading figure in 19th-century Symbolism, he shocked the world with his “soul painting” capturing the most profound anxieties of the human psyche. Compared to Edgar Allan Poe for his ability to translate psychological turmoil into art, Munch drew inspiration from the master of gothic horror, whose stories fascinated him as a child.

From an early age, Munch was intimately acquainted with illness and death. He lost his mother and sister to tuberculosis, and later his father to depression — an event that deepened his own emotional turmoil. The anarchist philosopher and writer Hans Jæger, a leading figure of the Bohemian movement, became a key influence, pushing Munch toward even greater introspection. Out of this profound self-exploration came his “notebooks of the soul” — a personal refuge where he recorded thoughts and reflections that would shape his artistic vision.

His work, the product of an intense creative process, is marked by symbolic color contrasts, discordant perspectives, and deeply reimagined emotions. Recurring themes — love and loss, anxiety and mortality — are explored through a range of expressive techniques, from painting to printmaking and lithography.

«Art is complete once the artist […] really knows how to show us what he has felt, and what has gripped him, and to this he subordinates everything else» wrote Christian Krohg, Munch’s friend and mentor. Munch, indeed, rejected mere representation in favor of raw emotional expression, refusing to conform to academic norms. His style — defined by nervous brushstrokes, bold colors, and an almost visceral intensity—was often seen by his contemporaries as unsettling, even disturbing. Yet it was precisely this radical honesty that would later establish him as a pioneer of modern art. Over time, however, Munch’s radical vision prevailed, cementing his status as a pivotal figure in modern art.

At Palazzo Bonaparte, the exhibition unfolds across two floors and seven sections, offering visitors the chance to admire a remarkable selection of masterpieces. Among the works on display are: The Death of Marat (1907), a turning point in his artistic evolution; Starry Night (1922-1924) and The Girls on the Bridge (1927), both testaments to his striking use of color; Melancholy (1900-1901), a defining work of Norwegian Synthetism; and Death in the Sickroom (1893), an emotionally charged scene capturing the aftermath of his sister Sophie’s passing.

No retrospective on Munch would be complete without The Scream (1895), presented here in its rare lithographic version. More than just a painting, it has become a universal symbol of existential anguish — its raw intensity resonating far beyond the art world. From high-profile thefts to its ubiquity in advertising, postage stamps, and currency, The Scream has permeated popular culture, inspiring cinematic and artistic reinterpretations, including those of Andy Warhol.

«I do not believe in any other art than that which is forced out by the human need to open one’s heart. All art – literature as well as music – must be generated from the blood of one’s heart. Art is one’s heart blood.». With these words, Edvard Munch paid a passionate tribute to art as the purest expression of the human soul. His evocative visual language, rich in deeply personal symbolism, takes center stage in a landmark exhibition that traces his journey from early works to his final creations. Munch. Il grido interiore delves into themes of loss, anguish, existential doubt, and the inescapable duality of love and death — all viewed through the artist’s deeply emotional lens.

Enhancing the exhibition, a dynamic calendar of cultural events will unfold across Rome, offering deeper insights into Munch’s life and artistic legacy. A chance, once more, to silently take part in his eternal inner cry.

Experience Munch’s art with comfort and style at TriviHo – Luxury Hotel Rome

Explore the city, then unwind in the refined elegance of our boutique hotel

Given the extraordinary nature of the works on loan, Munch. Il grido interiore at Palazzo Bonaparte presents a rare opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of one of Expressionism’s greatest masters. And what better way to enrich the experience than by staying just steps away from the exhibition?

TriviHo – Luxury Hotel Rome is the perfect base for those looking to experience Rome through the lens of art and culture. Nestled in the heart of the Trevi district, our boutique hotel offers effortless access to the city’s most iconic historical and cultural landmarks — whether by foot, public transport, or taxi.

After exploring Munch’s masterpieces, unwind in an elegant and sophisticated setting, where the beauty of the Eternal City meets contemporary design. Our carefully curated rooms, featuring refined décor and designer pieces, provide the ultimate comfort for a truly memorable stay.

Our dedicated team is on hand to assist with exhibition tickets and personalized recommendations for art, history, and culinary experiences across Rome. Secure the best rates on our website and indulge in a journey of art, culture, and relaxation.

Munch in Rome: a journey into the soul of Expressionism

Everything you need to know — dates, tickets, and exhibition details

The highly anticipated exhibition Munch. Il grido interiore will be on view from February 11 to June 2, 2025, at Palazzo Bonaparte, located at Piazza Venezia 5, Rome.

Opening hours:
• Monday – Thursday: 9:00 AM – 7:30 PM
• Friday – Sunday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Tickets:
• Open ticket: €22.00
• Full price: €18.00
• Reduced: €17.00

Please note: the ticket office closes one hour before closing time. For further details and reservations, visit mostrepalazzobonaparte.it or contact info@arthemisia.it.

Palazzo Bonaparte is conveniently situated just under 2 km from TriviHo – Luxury Hotel Rome, making it easy to visit. You can take a scenic 20-minute stroll through the historic center, enjoying the sights along the way. If you prefer a quicker option, a taxi will get you there in about 10 minutes.

Alternatively, you can hop on public transportation, which will have you at the venue in approximately 15 minutes:
• Bus Line 80 (toward P.za Venezia) – From Barberini (Ma) to Plebiscito, then a 1-minute walk (120m).
• Bus Line 60 (toward P.za Venezia) – From Nazionale/Torino to Quattro Novembre/S. Apostoli, then a 1-minute walk (140m).
• Bus Line 70 (toward Clodio) – From Nazionale/Torino to Plebiscito, then a 1-minute walk (120m).

Whichever way you choose to travel, getting to the exhibition is simple and enjoyable. Secure your spot now and immerse yourself in Munch’s powerful artistic world in the heart of Rome!