A Norwegian painter and illustrator, renowned for his vibrant, whimsical depictions of everyday life and fantastical creatures. His work often blended traditional and modern styles, captivating audiences of all ages.
Harald Kihle was a Norwegian painter and illustrator renowned for his captivating depictions of Telemark, a region in eastern Norway. His artwork echoes the majesty of Telemark's landscapes, people, and culture, earning him a place in the hearts of art enthusiasts and Telemark natives alike.
Kihle's fascination with Telemark began in the 1950s, when he settled in the artist community at Ekely in Oslo. He spent many summers exploring the region, immersing himself in its history, folklore, and the daily lives of its people. This fascination led to the creation of works that epitomize the essence of Telemark, capturing the essence of its valleys, mountains, and farmlands.
The horse became a recurring motif in Kihle's art, symbolizing the region's rich agricultural heritage and the connection between humans and nature. His paintings often feature horses in serene landscapes, showcasing the gentle majesty of these magnificent creatures.
Kihle's artistic journey began at the Statens hndverks og kunstindustriskole (State School of Crafts and Applied Arts), where he studied from 1926 to 1929. Under the guidance of notable artists like Henrik Sørensen, Axel Revold, and Per Krohg, he honed his skills and developed his unique style.
In 1947, Kihle built a summerhouse in Smørklepp, a rural village in Vinje, where he spent many summers with his wife, Ingrid Kirsten Olsen. It was during this time that he wrote an article about his thirty summers in Telemark, which was published in the annual yearbook for Telemark.
The Vinje Biletgalleri at Smørklepp now houses a collection of Kihle's works, alongside those of his friend and fellow painter, Henrik Sørensen. This gallery serves as a testament to the enduring impact of Kihle's art, which continues to inspire and enrich the lives of those who experience it.
Harald Kihle's life and art were deeply intertwined with the fabric of Telemark, leaving behind a legacy that continues to captivate and inspire. His paintings remain a testament to the region's rich cultural heritage, and his story serves as a reminder of the power of art to transcend time and place.
Born in 1863
A Norwegian painter who created iconic, emotionally charged works that explored the human experience, including the famous piece "The Scream".
Born in 1857
A Norwegian master of dark, whimsical art, creating eerie landscapes and fantastical creatures that continue to inspire and unsettle to this day.
Born in 1847
A Norwegian painter celebrated for capturing the essence of everyday life and landscapes through impressionist brushstrokes, evoking a sense of serenity and intimacy.
