Expressionism

Expressionism was an art movement in Germany in the early 1900s. The major medium used by expressionist artists was printmaking. The elements of expressionist art were meant to shed the restrictions of being realistic that previous European art had held on to. Paintings were supposed to reflect emotions and thought and be symbols, not recreated images of reality. Often subject matter was dark and meant to reflect on hardships of the time. Well known artists of this movement are Ernst Ludwig Kircher, Franz Marc, and Kathe Kollwitz.

Lino Cuts- Kathe Kollwitz

Vernal Pool - Holly Berry

The first print is a traditional German Expressionist piece and the second print is a contemporary work made by a local artist. Obviously both the styles and subject matters are very different, but they both follow elements of Expressionism. Kollwitz's is definitely of a darker subject matter and arouses sad feelings whereas Berry's is a colorful representation of nature. Kathe Kolwitz's print seems to just be composed of harsh contrasts between light and dark, which is part of what gives it such a solemn mood. Berry's has much more organic shapes and friendly curves.

"Collection Online | Browse By Movement | Expressionism - Guggenheim Museum."Collection Online | Browse By Movement | Expressionism - Guggenheim Museum. N.p., n.d. Web. 14 Apr. 2014.

"EXHIBITIONS." MoMA. N.p., n.d. Web. 14 Apr. 2014.

"German Expressionist Woodcut Prints." Pinterest. N.p., n.d. Web. 14 Apr. 2014.

"Linoleum Block Prints." Holly Berry Design. N.p., n.d. Web. 14 Apr. 2014.