Beyond The Scream: Edvard Munch Portraits Will Change Everything You Know About Him

The National Portrait Gallery’s latest offering Edvard Munch Portraits, is nothing short of a revelation. Too often reduced to The Scream, Munch is revealed here as a master of the human psyche, stripping portraiture down to its rawest essence.

Despite Munch’s global reputation, his portraiture has remained under-appreciated in the UK—until now. This landmark show corrects that oversight, offering a fresh perspective on his genius. This is the UK’s first major exhibition dedicated solely to Munch’s portraits, bringing together over 40 works that map the Norwegian artist’s evolution. From naturalistic early studies to later, more abstracted and psychological depictions, each piece pulses with intensity. Here, Munch’s subjects are not merely painted; they are dissected, their emotions laid bare with every brushstroke.

Beyond The Scream: A New Look at Munch

Edvard Munch (1863–1944) is often associated with The Scream (1893), that iconic depiction of existential dread. But this exhibition proves he was so much more than a painter of anguish. Here, Munch’s ability to capture the human condition through energetic brushstrokes, expressive colour, and raw emotion takes centre stage. His portraits range from intimate depictions of family and friends to grand society commissions, each infused with his signature psychological intensity.

What makes this exhibition so striking is its careful curation, charting Munch’s artistic evolution from his early naturalistic works to the more experimental and symbolic portraits that defined his later years. Expect a mix of hauntingly beautiful paintings, evocative lithographs, and surprising moments of artistic vulnerability.

5 Must-See Masterpieces in the Exhibition

🖌️ Hans Jæger (1889) – A vivid, almost confrontational portrait of the infamous anarchist writer and one of Munch’s key influences. The piercing gaze and bold colour contrast make this an unmissable highlight.

🌙 Evening (1888) – A deceptively serene depiction of Munch’s sister, Laura, which on closer inspection, reveals an unsettling psychological depth. The ghostly remnants of an erased figure hint at themes of isolation and melancholy.

🔎 Thor Lütken (1892) – A seemingly straightforward portrait of a friend, but look closer—Munch has embedded a miniature landscape within the sitter’s sleeve, a mysterious visual puzzle for art sleuths to unravel.

🎻 The Brooch. Eva Mudocci (1902) – A breathtaking lithograph of the violinist Eva Mudocci, possibly Munch’s lover. Her flowing hair and enigmatic expression add to the air of mystique surrounding this powerful portrait.

🧣 Model with a Green Scarf (1916) – A rare and compelling portrait of Sultan Abdul Karim, Munch’s chauffeur. Unlike his earlier works that exoticised non-European sitters, this painting presents Karim with dignity and presence.

Why not recreate Munch's most famous masterpiece piece by piece? Clementoni’s The Scream jigsaw puzzle offers a hands-on way to engage with Munch’s genius. This fine art jigsaw puzzle captures every swirling brushstroke and vibrant colour. Once completed, consider displaying your masterpiece with a jigsaw puzzle frame—a perfect way to showcase Munch’s vision in your own space.

Plan Your Visit 🎟️

📍 Where? National Portrait Gallery, Floor 2
📅 When? 13 March – 15 June 2025
💷 Tickets? £21 / £23.50 with donation (Free for Members)
🎟️ Booking recommended – Secure your spot now!

In an age where the self-portrait has been reduced to a social media commodity, Edvard Munch Portraits reminds us of the power of true psychological exploration. This is more than a retrospective—it’s a window into Munch’s soul, and by extension, our own.

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Our fine art collection showcases vivid interpretations of timeless masterpieces from celebrated artists, giving puzzle lovers a unique way to engage with art. Whether you're piecing together Edvard Munch's emotionally charged The Scream, the swirling colours of Van Gogh, or the peaceful beauty of Monet’s landscapes, each puzzle brings the world of art to life in your hands.