johan martin nielssen

1835 - 1912

Quick Facts

  • Museums on APS:
    • Nordnorsk Kunstmuseum
    • Nordnorsk Kunstmuseum
    • Nordnorsk Kunstmuseum
    • Nordnorsk Kunstmuseum
    • Nordnorsk Kunstmuseum
  • Works on APS: 1
  • Nationality: Norway
  • Art period: 19th Century
  • Copyright status: Public domain
  • Lifespan: 77 years
  • More…

Art Quiz

There is only one correct answer for each question.

Question 1:
Johan Martin Nielssen was a Norwegian painter primarily associated with which artistic movement?
Question 2:
What school of painting significantly influenced Johan Martin Nielssen's artistic style?
Question 3:
Nielssen’s paintings are known for their focus on what type of subject matter?
Question 4:
Which museum features Norwegian National Romanticism paintings, including works by Johan Martin Nielssen?

Johan Martin Nielssen: A Biography

Early Life and Artistic Development

  • Born: Stavanger, Norway, in 1835
  • Died: 1912
  • Initially painted primarily with oils in a studio, basing his works on earlier field studies.
  • As he matured, Nielssen began painting "en plein air" (outdoors), advocating for this practice to his students.

Artistic Style and Influences

  • Style: Associated with Norwegian National Romanticism.
  • Influences: The Düsseldorf school of painting, emphasizing landscape art; also influenced by fellow Norwegian artists Hans Fredrik Gude and Johan Christian Dahl.
  • Characteristics: Use of light and color to create depth and atmosphere in landscapes and seascapes. Paintings often convey a sense of beauty and tranquility.

Key Themes and Notable Works

  • Themes: Norwegian national identity, the beauty of nature (landscapes and seascapes).
  • Notable Works: From Stord Island - The Entry to the Hardanger Fjord, From Ävik near Svinør. These works exemplify his skill in capturing the essence of Norway's natural landscapes.

Historical Significance and Legacy

  • Norwegian National Romanticism: Nielssen was a key figure in this movement, which celebrated Norwegian culture and identity through art. His paintings helped shape the visual representation of Norway during the 19th century.
  • Influence on Students: His advocacy for "en plein air" painting influenced generations of Norwegian artists.
  • Museum Presence: Works by Johan Martin Nielssen can be found in prestigious museums, including the Nivaagaards Malerisamling (Denmark) and the Gemäldegalerie Alte Meister (Germany).

Further Information