Exposure to colour was, for centuries, determined by class. The poor lived in largely drab worlds, but the rich surrounded themselves with vivid hues. This all changed in the late 19th century and the 20th.
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The world looks very different now, compared with the past. This explores differences in lighting, from candlepower to the excesses seen in modern cities, and their effects on painting.
Their landscapes developed a magic distinctive to the artist. Only by direct comparison are their similarities and differences made clear.
Ignoring Cubism and modernism, he developed a magical realism, bringing to life the trees and corn stooks around his smallholding.
After a visit to Berlin, his colours became more strident, and his brushstrokes looser. He also made many woodcuts, which influenced and informed his paintings.
With early success, he painted the rich colours of summer in western Norway, and some magical scenes of foxgloves and Midsummer Eve.
Natural Norway in the early 20th century, with its courting couple in a cowshed, watermills, dramatic fjords, and rugged hills.
A look back at some of the series and some surprises which you might have missed over the last year.
Initially a portraitist and history painter, be became strongly Impressionist, painting wonderful landscapes in the late nineteenth century.
Her paintings take you beyond the instant optical gratification of Impressionism, into a great painterly discourse between the inside and outside.
The Eclectic Light Company 