The Mocking Mural in Oslo City... Note

The Mocking Mural in Oslo City Hall in Oslo, Norway

Oslo City Hall is a major tourist attraction, particularly known for the Nobel Peace Prize ceremony. Many visitors overlook the second floor, which features a significant artwork. In 1937-8, artist Willi Midelfart was commissioned to create the fresco "Det gror" for the banquet hall. This monumental work was inspired by summer life at Holmsbu and artist Edvard Munch. The fresco depicts families engaged in activities like swimming, playing, and exploring nature. During its creation, the architect unexpectedly added a second door to the right of the original for aesthetic purposes. An enraged Midelfart incorporated a detail of a small boy mocking the new door. This boy points at the added doorway and sticks out his tongue in defiance. Ironically, the architect's addition is non-functional. The right door is actually bricked up, as evidenced by its view from the adjacent kitchen. The painting now serves as a humorous illustration of an artist's strong reaction to interference.
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