Konrad Mägi

Dulwich Picture Gallery presents the first major UK exhibition of Konrad Mägi (1878–1925) in partnership with the Art Museum of Estonia, from 24 March 2026 – 12 July 2026. A pioneer of Estonian modernism, Mägi is renowned in his home country for his avantgarde, unique colouristic style and is widely considered the greatest Estonian artist of his generation.

The exhibition will bring together over 60 works, including enigmatic landscapes and arresting portraits, many of which have never been seen outside of Estonia. It will consider the influence of major European movements upon Mägi’s work, such as Pointillism, Neo-Impressionism and Expressionism, as well as the independent approaches that he took in painting as a largely self-taught artist. 

Mägi travelled extensively throughout his life to Norway, France, Italy, Belgium and Finland, and his exposure to European art and ideals had a profound impact upon his paintings. Throughout his career, his work evolved significantly, marked by bold experimentation with brushstrokes, colour, motifs, and perspective. After spending time in Norway between 1908 and 1910, he created a series of Norwegian landscapes that brought him his first artistic recognition. 

Turning to the Baltic islands following his declining health, Mägi produced a significant body of work during the summers of 1913 and 1914. The exhibition will showcase paintings created in Saaremaa and Vilsandi. representing a breakthrough moment artistically for the artist. These works demonstrate his fascination with the unique botanical species of the landscape including flora, fauna, and the vastness of the sea.

Mägi’s landscapes of Southern Estonia, created in the latter period of his life, will be presented in the final room of the exhibition. These paintings demonstrate the artist’s fascination with capturing the rhythm and tone of the natural landscape. 

Shown alongside Mägi's works will be a specially commissioned sculptural work by Estonian artist Kristina Õllek. Created in response to Mägi’s paintings, while on a residency in the Saaremaa islands, the new commission will take inspiration from his works.

Further Information:  Konrad Mägi

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