About This Journal
The Kitsch Canon is an independent editorial resource devoted to figurative and Old-Master painting — its history, its craft, and the twilight tradition that Odd Nerdrum did so much to name and defend.
This publication exists to take a body of art seriously that the twentieth century often refused to: representational, emotional, technically demanding painting of the human figure. It is written in a plain editorial register for anyone curious about how such pictures are made and why they endure — students and painters, collectors, museum-goers, and readers who simply love a canvas that dares to move them.
Editorial stance and independence
The Kitsch Canon is an independent resource. It is not the official website of Odd Nerdrum; it is not operated by, affiliated with, or endorsed by him, his family, his estate, or any gallery or dealer that has represented his work. It reproduces none of his paintings. Where the journal refers to him or to other named artists, it does so nominatively and in the third person, exactly as an encyclopedia, a textbook or an art magazine would — because their contributions to figurative painting are matters of public record worth explaining well.
What we cover
- The idea and history of Kitsch as a redefined category and the movement around it.
- The craft of Old-Master oil painting, from materials to the handling of light.
- The great subjects: the human figure, self-portraiture, and the timeless landscape.
- The teaching tradition that keeps it all alive — the atelier revival.
Imagery
All imagery on this site is original, atmospheric work created to evoke the mood and materials of the tradition — light studies, studio scenes, still lifes and generic figures. None of it copies or imitates a specific painting by Odd Nerdrum or any other artist. For the actual works discussed, readers are encouraged to visit public collections such as the National Museum of Norway and the major museums linked throughout these pages.
Get in touch
Corrections, suggestions and thoughtful disagreement are all welcome. Use the form below to reach the editors.