Greeting of Knut Hauge, the ambassador of the Kingdom of Norway to Russia

It is a great pleasure for me to present this special issue of the "Tretyakov Gallery" magazine, Norway - Russia: On the Crossroads of Cultures, which is dedicated to the 150th anniversary of the birth of Edvard Munch, the most famous Norwegian artist.

A pioneer of European modern art, Edvard Munch is rightfully considered one of the world's most important artists. His creative career spanned more than 60 years, from his debut in the early 1880s until his death in 1944. Munch was extremely productive, and his artistic legacy comprises thousands of works of art - paintings, prints, drawings, watercolours, sculptures, photographs and manuscripts.

Munch's unorthodox style of painting evoked both wrath and admiration among his contemporaries. To this day his works fascinate and delight us. His tireless artistic experimentation and creative power ensure that Munch remains relevant today.

I am pleased that Edvard Munch is being featured prominently in this special issue of the "Tretyakov Gallery" magazine in his anniversary year. I hope that the articles presented here will spur the Russian public's interest in Munch's life and work.

Culture has long been one of the most important interfaces between our two countries, contributing to more than a thousand years of peaceful neighbourly relations between Norway and Russia.

I hope that this special issue of the "Tretyakov Gallery" magazine will give a boost to cultural exchange, joint initiatives and cross-border cooperation between our countries in the future.

KNUT HAUGE AMBASSADOR OF THE KINGDOM OF NORWAY TO RUSSIA

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