Vigeland Sculpture Park – Oslo, Norway

Oslo is home to the world’s largest sculpture park with over 200 statues created by a single artist – Gustav Vigeland (1869-1943).  Although Vigeland also designed and completed the layout of the park over a 10-year period, it represents his lifework.  But, be prepared…it’s not your typical park!

Vigeland Sculpture Park

More accurately called the Vigeland installation at Frogner Park, the sculpture area covers 80 acres and is home to 212 bronze, granite, and cast iron sculptures.  The 100-metre long Bridge lined with 58 sculptures connects the Main Gate and “The Fountain” to “The Monolith” beyond.

The twisty, twirly statues in the park are organized in a straight-line axis about the length of two football fields.  As you walk, you’re supposed to be following mankind’s journey through life – from the cradle to the grave.

The sculptures represent one man’s exploration of the human form at every age of man…from babies to old men and women.

"Man Attacked by Babies"

The sculptures feature humans in everyday activities, such as walking, sitting, and holding hands to the more abstract and bizarre, such as “Man Attacked by Babies” and a relief where a skeleton emerges from between two entwined lovers.

The highlight of the park is “The Fountain,” originally designed to stand in front of the Norwegian Parliament.  But the location proved controversial with its 60 individual bronze reliefs representing the circle of life and 20 tree sculptures of children, teenagers, old men, and skeletons.

The bronze statue of the little “Angry Boy” is one the most famous statues as is the Monolith and the Wheel of Life.  You’ll find the little boy statue on the bridge.

"The Monolith"

“The Monolith” is the focal point of the park.  The 46-foot high sculpture features 121 entwined human figures, meant to represent the human desire to reach out to the divine.  It took the sculpture 14 years to create with the help of three other stone carvers.  In addition, 36 sculptural groups reside on the plateau along with the monolith.

“The Wheel of Life” is a sundial positioned at the end of the 850-meter axis representing eternity with four human figures and a baby locked in a circle, floating in harmony.

And did I mention that all these outdoor sculptures are…well, nude—every one of them.  Be prepared for an eye-opening experience!

Enjoy this “Walk Through Vigeland Park” video.