An artwork on Galleree from Minneapolis Institute of Art.
About the artwork
Zurich1926
Artist: Ernst Ludwig Kirchner
German, 1880–1938
cityscape in bright color (predominately maroon, pink, green and blues) with two towers; clock tower at left; bridge with arches in middle ground; five boats behind dock in foreground, with two figures seated in one boat; two figures in foreground
52 5/8 × 46 11/16 in. (133.67 × 118.59 cm) (sight)
54 3/4 × 48 7/8 × 1 1/2 in. (139.07 × 124.14 × 3.81 cm) (outer frame)
Oil on canvas
Painting
Germany
20th century
Bequest of Bruce B. Dayton
In the serene embrace of the Swiss landscape, the legendary artist Ernst Ludwig Kirchner found a new home among the rolling hills and charming architecture. It was here, after 1920, that Kirchner became not just a visitor but a vital force in the blossoming art scene, particularly with the Swiss Expressionist group known as Rot-Blau, or Red-Blue. Their spirited gatherings in Basle echoed with the vibrant ideas and revolutionary thoughts that stirred Kirchner's soul.
As sunlight spilled over the canvas of 1926, Kirchner’s brush danced lightly across surfaces, capturing the essence of city life with remarkable clarity. Among his notable works, "Mia’s View of Dresden: Schlossplatz" stood out, reflecting the beauty he observed with fresh eyes—a celebration of life in motion. Each stroke articulated the pulse of the city, revealing a story woven into the everyday tapestry.
And yet, his heart resonated even more deeply with the city of Bern. To Kirchner, it was here, nestled in Switzerland's embrace, that he felt truly at peace. Unlike the bustling Zurich, Bern’s charm tugged at his creativity, prompting him to paint another significant piece—a "View of Bern" that flourished under his talented hands.
What made these cityscapes truly remarkable was Kirchner’s transition into what he called the "tapestry style." Gone were the murky tones of his earlier works; the colors in this phase blossomed into purer, lighter hues, each shade standing resolutely on its own yet harmonizing perfectly with its neighbors. This technique embraced clarity, emphasizing the vibrant beauty that life in these cities offered.
Behind the scenes, a benefactor named Larry Oakey played an instrumental role in the preservation of this legacy, generously funding the conservation of Kirchner's treasured works. Thanks to his support, the passionate energy captured in Kirchner’s paintings continues to resonate, inviting onlookers to experience the magic of those serene Swiss landscapes and the intriguing stories they tell.
About the artist
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