We remember Erik Werenskiold with deep gratitude. He was and will always be one of the heroes of Norwegian history, a great artist - a great person. Within our artistic life, Werenskiold made his significant efforts in so many areas, but naturally we especially remember his work for the creation of the Artists' House - and his interest in its activities. First and foremost, however, with this exhibition we want to pay our warm tribute to the great painter and draftsman. - Circumstances beyond our control meant that the exhibition could not be organized in the anniversary month itself, but when it comes, we hope and believe that it will give a rich and true picture of Werenskiold's art. Admittedly, we have been unable to make a narrow selection of Werenskiold's very extensive production, nor have we been able to get hold of absolutely all the works we wanted to exhibit. Nevertheless, we believe that the exhibition will act as a revelation to the many who have not had the opportunity to get to know Werenskiold's art, - and that it will give even more people the good experience of revisiting treasures that have been hidden in the mind and that has been shaped by.

Let us thank the many people who have helped us get the exhibition up and running: the numerous public and private owners at home and abroad who have readily made their Werenskiold works available, first conservator Leif Østby who has given us a range of information about Werenskiolds works - and not least Erik Werenskiold's family who have contributed with loans and all other necessary assistance.

THE DIRECTORATE FOR THE ARTISTS' HOUSE