The History of The Scream
Munch created several versions of The Scream: two paintings, two pastels and a lithograph, made between 1893 and around 1910.
He described the inspiration in his diary: walking at sunset with two friends, he saw the sky turn blood red and "sensed an infinite scream passing through nature."
Versions are held by the National Museum of Norway and the Munch Museum in Oslo. A pastel version sold at auction in 2012 for about $120 million.
What Does The Scream Mean?
The central figure is often read not as screaming, but as reacting to the scream of nature around it, covering its ears.
Munch's distorted forms and expressive colors helped pave the way for Expressionism, an art movement focused on inner emotion over realistic appearance.
About Edvard Munch
Edvard Munch (1863–1944) was a Norwegian painter and printmaker whose emotionally charged work explored love, anxiety, illness and death. He left a large part of his work to the city of Oslo.
Fun Facts
- Two versions of The Scream have been stolen, in 1994 and 2004. Both were later recovered.
- The scene is set on a road overlooking Oslo.
- Munch died in 1944, so his works entered the public domain in many countries in 2015.
How to Wear Your The Scream Tee
The Scream pops on a black tee with the fiery sky front and center. It is a perfect pick for Halloween, finals week or Monday mornings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Scream really in the public domain?
Yes. The artist died more than 70 years ago, so the original artwork is no longer protected by copyright in the United States or most other countries. That is why we can print it on our tees.
What shirt is the art printed on?
Every design is printed on demand on a soft, 100% combed ring-spun cotton unisex tee using direct-to-garment printing, so the ink becomes part of the fabric instead of sitting on top like a heavy decal.
How long does shipping take?
Each shirt is printed after you order. Printing usually takes 2–5 business days, and US shipping typically takes another 3–5 business days.
