The grounds of Dulwich Picture Gallery will transform into a world of light and fire this winter to celebrate the opening of the major exhibition Nikolai Astrup: Painting Norway.
On 5th and 6th February fire sculpture specialists Walk the Plank will transform the grounds after dusk into a live fire garden evoking the light and warmth of the blazing Midsummer bonfires in Nikolai Astrup’s paintings. Visitors of all ages will be invited to explore flame-lined paths amongst copper flowers that breathe fire, scorching sculptural trees as well as especially commissioned fire boxes featuring designs responding to Astrup’s bonfire paintings.
Bonfires are a significant and recurring motif in Astrup’s work, the climactic room in the exhibition featuring several of the artist’s most famous depictions of the traditional Norwegian Midsummer celebrations. Walk the Plank will bring to life the sense of warmth and life in these paintings with a beautiful series of fiery installations including flaming lotus flowers, fire-breathing hollies and swaying giant bulrushes.
During the evening visitors can enjoy access to the Gallery’s permanent collection. Winter refreshments will include Herne Hill’s famed La Tartiflette as well as hot cider and luxury hot chocolate to warm cold hands.
Friday 5 February / Saturday 6 February 6.30pm – 9.30pm. Price (includes entry to permanent collection): children £5, adults £8. Family ticket: £20 (two adults, two children). To book, visit www.dulwichpicturegallery.org.uk