Ernst Ludwig Kirchner (1880-1938) was a prominent German Expressionist painter and one of the founding members of the artistic group known as Die Brücke (The Bridge). He is known for his bold and vivid works, which often depicted urban life, especially in Berlin and Dresden, during the early 20th century. Here are some key points about Ernst Ludwig Kirchner:1. **Early Life and Artistic Training**: Kirchner was born on May 6, 1880, in Aschaffenburg, Germany. He initially studied architecture in Dresden but abandoned it in favor of pursuing a career in art. He enrolled at the Royal Saxon Academy of Art in Dresden.2. **Formation of Die Brücke**: In 1905, Kirchner, along with fellow artists Fritz Bleyl, Karl Schmidt-Rottluff, and Erich Heckel, founded the artistic group Die Brücke. This group aimed to break away from traditional academic art and embrace a more experimental and avant-garde approach.3. **Expressionist Style**: Kirchner's art is characterized by its bold use of color, distorted forms, and an emphasis on emotional and psychological content. His works often depict scenes of urban life, including street scenes, cafes, and the people of the city.4. **Urban Themes**: Kirchner was particularly drawn to the frenetic energy of modern cities, and his paintings often captured the vitality and anxiety of urban existence. He frequently depicted Berlin and Dresden in his works.5. **Die Brücke Manifesto**: The members of Die Brücke published a manifesto in 1906 that outlined their artistic principles. They sought to create a bridge between the past and the future, embracing modernity and pushing artistic boundaries.6. **Influence of African and Oceanic Art**: Kirchner and other Die Brücke artists were inspired by non-Western art forms, particularly African and Oceanic art. This influence is evident in their work, which often featured elements reminiscent of these traditions.7. **Exhibition and Recognition**: Die Brücke artists held their first public exhibition in 1906. While their work was met with both acclaim and controversy, it marked the beginning of their artistic movement. Kirchner's work, in particular, received attention for its boldness and innovation.8. **World War I and Post-War Years**: Kirchner served as a soldier during World War I, an experience that deeply affected him. After the war, he struggled with his mental health but continued to create art. He moved to Switzerland in 1917 to seek a more peaceful and contemplative environment.9. **Dresden Period**: Kirchner's time in Dresden during the early 20th century was particularly productive. He produced many of his iconic works during this period, capturing the spirit and anxieties of urban life.10. **Death**: Tragically, Ernst Ludwig Kirchner took his own life in 1938 in Davos, Switzerland, at the age of 58. His death marked the end of an era in German Expressionist art.Ernst Ludwig Kirchner's contributions to German Expressionism and his role as a founding member of Die Brücke left a lasting impact on modern art. His bold and emotionally charged works continue to be celebrated for their groundbreaking approach to color, form, and the portrayal of urban life.
Measures 17.5 x 14.