May 15, 2025 through October 26, 2025
Rodale Gallery
Ernst Ludwig Kirchner (German, 1880 1938), Gewecke and Erna, 1913, drypoint, edition: 30; publisher: J. B. Neumann, Berlin, Germany. Gift of Audrey and Bernard Berman, 2000.
In the early twentieth century, German artists adopted simplified forms and erratic gestures creating a rough, eye-catching aesthetic. This emotive style, Expressionism, became a tool for grappling with existential dread and a fear of global conflict. In the years surrounding the First World War (1914-1918), some artists turned to dark subjects such as death and terror, while others tried to find light in the chaos through religion, communion with nature, and the joy of simplicity. Both approaches to Expressionism embraced bold line and an emotional intensity that still resonates with viewers today.
Max Thalmann (German, 1890 1944), Untitled from the portfolio Der Dom (The Cathedral), 1923, woodcut, edition: 300; publisher: Verlag Eugen Diederichs, Jena, Germany. Purchase: Gift of Paul K. Kania, 2021.
This exhibition is supported through the generosity of The Bernard and Audrey Berman Foundation and the Leon C. and June W. Holt Endowment.