Berit Overgaard

Berit Overgaard, born on October 3, 1939, in Horten, Norway, is a distinguished visual artist specializing in tapestry, painting, and installations. She pursued her education at the Bergen Kunsthåndverkskole (Bergen School of Arts and Crafts) during 1964–66 and 1972, followed by studies at the Studieatelieret in Bergen in 1973. She further honed her skills at the Statens Lærerhøgskole i Forming (State Teachers’ College for Arts and Crafts) in Oslo from 1973 to 1976.

Overgaard made her debut at the “Høstutstillingen” (Autumn Exhibition) in 1979 with the tapestry “Hommage à Vindtorn.” Her first solo exhibition was held in 1984 at the Kunstnernes Sentrale Hus in Moscow and Galleri Cassandra in Drøbak. Initially focusing exclusively on tapestry, she expanded her artistic repertoire in the 1990s to include painting and installations. Her style is consistently figurative, often leaning towards the naive rather than the realistic, with a strong emphasis on color. Literature and political events frequently inspire her work, with titles that enhance the narrative aspect.

Her experiences living in Moscow from 1980 to 1984 and in Kirkenes from 1989 to 1992 have significantly influenced her art, particularly her installations. During her time in the Soviet Union, she connected with local artists, and her Russian-inspired themes often reflect elements of Sots-Art, a movement that satirized state-directed Socialist Realism.

Overgaard has held numerous solo exhibitions across Norway and has participated in various group exhibitions, including multiple appearances at the “Høstutstillingen” and the “Østlandsutstillingen.” Her works are part of several public collections, and she has completed various public art commissions. Notably, she created a 14-meter-high tapestry for the Justervesenet building at Kjeller.

In addition to her artistic practice, Overgaard has contributed to arts education and advocacy. She led the Tapestry Department at the Høgskolen i Oslo (Oslo University College) from 1984 to 1995 and served as the leader of the professional organization Norske Tekstilkunstnere (Norwegian Textile Artists) from 1985 to 1987.

Berit Overgaard continues to reside and work in Drøbak, Norway, where she remains an active figure in the art community.