The long-awaited museum is now expected to open in spring 2021 after experiencing a number of delays tied to the Coronavirus pandemic

Lauren Heath-Jones | Planet Attractions | 07 Jan 2021

The Munch Museum was scheduled to open in Q3 2020 but has been delayed due to ongoing effects of the coronavirus pandemic Credit: Guttorm Stilén Johansen/Munchmuseet
The NOK3bn (US$320m, €300m, £250m) Munch Museum in Oslo, Norway, has finally been given a launch window, with the long-awaited attraction now set to open this spring.
Dedicated to the life and work of celebrated Norwegian Expressionist; Edvard Munch, the museum, which sits on the Oslo waterfront, is housed inside a 280,000sq ft (26,000sq m) building designed by Spanish architecture firm Estudio Hereros.
An extensive collection of more than 45,000 objects - including 18,200 graphic artworks, 6,800 drawings and 1,100 paintings, will feature, with the works donated to the city of Oslo by Munch himself.
Originally set for June 2020, the museum’s opening was postponed until Q3 2020 after building delays earlier in the year. That date was pushed further back following more delays, including the delivery of security and fire doors, as well as issues with the museum’s internal climate control system which failed to meet regulation requirements.
“We understand the postponement was disappointing for many. It was for us too,” said Stein Olav Henrichsen, the museum’s director. “At the same time, it’s absolutely crucial that temperatures and humidity are in accordance with the requirements for storing and exhibiting art.”
Among its exhibits, the museum will feature a permanent installation from British artist, Tracey Emin. Set to be installed at the museum’s entrance, The Mother is a 30ft (9m) bronze sculpture of a kneeling woman.
Emin is also responsible for a debut exhibition at the museum that will explore her personal relationship to Munch - someone she looks up to as a “hero” - as well as the parallels between the two artists’ work.
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