Harald Kihle Art Museum

Harald Kihle Art Museum is located at Apenestunet in Horten, close to where the artist grew up. The museum presents around 170 works by Harald Kihle, from his earliest childhood drawings to paintings, lithographs and woodcuts created later in life. The exhibition offers an insight into the artistic development of one of Norway's notable 20th-century artists.

From childhood drawings to a lifetime of art
Harald Kihle (1905–1997) began drawing at an early age. Growing up near Horten, he found inspiration in his surroundings, particularly horses, which became a recurring subject throughout his career. The museum traces the development of his artistic style through early drawings, paintings and graphic works. Many of his subjects are inspired by Telemark, a region he returned to repeatedly throughout his life.

Horses, rural life and stories from Telemark
Kihle's art draws inspiration from landscapes, people and traditional rural life. Many of his works reflect the culture and storytelling traditions of Telemark. The exhibition includes works inspired by the legend of Guro Heddelid and the poem cycle Storegut by Norwegian poet Aasmund Olavsson Vinje.

Through paintings, woodcuts and lithographs, visitors can explore Kihle's use of colour, composition and graphic techniques, and discover how his distinctive artistic expression developed.

An extensive collection of art and archives
The museum also preserves Harald Kihle's artistic archive, including sketches, preparatory studies, photographs, diaries, letters and other documentation. The archive is being catalogued and digitised, with selected material being made available through DigitaltMuseum. It offers insights into both the artist's creative process and the person behind the works.

Art and culture at Apenestunet
Harald Kihle Art Museum is part of Apenestunet Art and Cultural Centre. The site also includes Kihlegalleriet, which hosts temporary exhibitions, concerts, talks and other cultural events. For children and families, Kihles KunstLab offers creative workshops inspired by the artist's subjects and techniques. The workshops have their own programme and opening hours. For more art experiences in Horten, visit Preus Museum at Karljohansvern, where you can discover the history of photography and explore changing photographic exhibitions.
You can also discover more places to visit in the Horten attractions guide.

Plan your visit
Harald Kihle Art Museum is located at Falkenstensveien 29 in Horten, with access from Apenesbakken. The museum has seasonal opening hours, with additional opening periods and events throughout the year. Check Apenestunet's official website for the latest opening days and times.

Admission is free for visitors under 18 and members of Horten Art Association. Private guided tours and group visits can be arranged in advance. Free parking is available at the museum, and café facilities are available at Apenestunet. Visit Apenestunet's official museum page for current opening hours, admission prices, exhibitions and events.