To create the illusion of depth and atmosphere on a flat surface, the artist has to consider how to portray the light. There are many possibilities and painterly techniques for this, and the ideals have varied over the years. One way is to depict shapes through imperceptible shifts between dark and highlighted sections. Other methods are based on sharp contrasts between lighter and darker shades of the same colour, or between different colours.

In the 19th century, artists were fascinated by attempts to portray light as realistically as possible. Students at the academies studied 17th century chiaroscuro painting – dark scenes illuminated by a solitary candle or some hidden source of light. Other approaches were introduced with plein-air painting, when artists studied atmospheric phenomena and optical effects. The development of artificial lighting created new conditions both indoors and in the streets.

This presentation of works from Nationalmuseum’s collection explores perspectives on light and darkness in real life and in art. What are the sources of light? How are they portrayed in art? How have artists used light for effect and as a subject in itself?

• Link to this page