Ambrosia Tønnesen. Sculpture
Large exhibition at Permanenten
Ambrosia Tønnesen i sitt atelier. ©Synnøve des Bouvrie
When
Where Permanenten
In 2024, our esteemed sculptor Ambrosia Tønnesen is celebrated and honored!
We look forward to showcasing a wide selection of Tønnesen's works executed in plaster, bronze, and marble.
Exhibition opening October 17th at 19.00.
Welcome to a beautiful exhibition this fall and winter, which will showcase a diverse selection of Ambrosia Tønnesen's works executed in plaster, bronze, and marble.
The Norwegian artist Ambrosia Tønnesen (1859–1948), a sculptor, made an unconventional career choice and had a prolific output in the late 19th century. She exhibited in Paris and received significant commissions at home.
Notably, she created the J.C. Dahl bronze sculpture adorning the facade of Permanenten.
More on the exhibition
In the fall of 2024, Ambrosia Tønnesen will be honored in Bergen with a monument, launched by the municipality of Bergen as part of their 'Women on Pedestals' project.
Simultaneously, Kode will present a broad exhibition featuring more than 60 of Tønnesen's works at Permanenten, curated by Jorunn Veiteberg, who has also authored the artist's biography.
About Ambrosia Tønnesen
Ambrosia Tønnesen was one of the first professional sculptors in Norway.
She was born in Ålesund and made her debut in Bergen in 1884, after which she traveled to Copenhagen, Berlin, and Paris to further develop as an artist.
At the time, she was perceived as assertive and "mannish," but this modern demeanor did not hinder her artistic success. She had many commissions, frequently exhibited at the Salon in Paris, and was both well-known and respected during her time.
After over 20 years in Paris, she returned to Bergen in 1910, where she lived until her death.
Ambrosia Tønnesen poserer i studio med en modell av J.C. Dahl monumentet. Foto ©Synnøve des Bouvrie
Ambrosia Tønnesen, Komponist Edvard Grieg, 1902. Kode. Foto: Dag Fosse.
Ambrosia Tønnesen i studio. ©Synnøve des Bouvrie
Ambrosia Tønnesen, Forfatter Amalie Skram, 1916. Kode. Foto: Dag Fosse.
About the artist
Ambrosia Tønnesen (1859–1948) was one of the first professional sculptors in Norway.
Born in Ålesund, she made her debut in Bergen in 1884 and then traveled to Copenhagen, Berlin, and Paris to further develop as an artist.
Perceived by her contemporaries as authoritative and "mannhaftig" (manly), this modern demeanor did not hinder her artistic success. She received numerous commissions, frequently exhibited at the Salongen in Paris, and was both well-known and respected in her time.
After more than 20 years in Paris, she returned to Bergen in 1910 and remained there until her death.
About the Curator
Jorunn Veiteberg (b. 1955) holds a Ph.D. in art history from the University of Bergen. She has extensive experience as a curator, educator, and communicator in art institutions, media, and academia.
She has authored around 30 books, including the biography Ambrosia Tønnesen "Stenhugger i det Fine" (2009).
Ambrosia Tønnesen som ung student. ©Synnøve des Bouvrie
Utstillingen vises i Permanenten.