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Max PechsteinGerman artist
Date of Birth: 31.12.1881
Country:  Germany |
Content:
- Max Pechstein: A Leading Figure in German Expressionism
- The "Bridge" Group (1906-1912)
- New Sezession Group and MUIIM Institute (1910-1911)
- World War I and Influence of Gauguin (1914-1918)
- Artistic Recognition and Political Suppression (1918-1937)
- World War II and Loss of Works (1937-1944)
- Professor at Berlin Art School (1945-1955)
Max Pechstein: A Leading Figure in German Expressionism
Early Life and Education (1896-1906)Max Pechstein was born in 1881 in Zwickau, Germany. His artistic journey began with private drawing lessons from 1896 to 1900. He later pursued painting in Dresden, studying at the Art School until 1902 and subsequently at the Academy of Fine Arts until 1906.
The "Bridge" Group (1906-1912)
In 1906, Pechstein joined the artistic group "Die Brücke" (The Bridge) alongside Ernst Ludwig Kirchner, Erich Heckel, and others. The group was characterized by its bold colors, expressive brushstrokes, and focus on depicting emotional experiences. Pechstein's work gained recognition, and he received the Saxon State Prize in 1907.
New Sezession Group and MUIIM Institute (1910-1911)
In 1910, Pechstein co-founded the "Neue Sezession" (New Secession) group with Heckel and Kirchner. He also established the MUIIM Institute ("Modern Teaching in Painting") with Kirchner in 1911. This institute aimed to revolutionize art education.
World War I and Influence of Gauguin (1914-1918)
In 1914, inspired by Paul Gauguin, Pechstein traveled to the Palau Islands in Micronesia. Upon his return, he continued to paint in the expressionist style, incorporating elements of Oceanic art. During World War I, Pechstein served on the Western Front, which had a profound impact on his work.
Artistic Recognition and Political Suppression (1918-1937)
After the war, Pechstein co-founded the "Work Council for Art." In 1922, he was elected to the Prussian Academy of Art. However, with the rise of Nazism in 1933, Pechstein's art was banned as "degenerate." In 1937, 326 of his paintings were confiscated from German museums.
World War II and Loss of Works (1937-1944)
During World War II, Pechstein's home was destroyed in a bombing raid, resulting in the loss of numerous artworks. Despite this setback, he continued to create, albeit in a more restrained style.
Professor at Berlin Art School (1945-1955)
After the war, Pechstein became a professor at the Berlin University of the Arts. He played a vital role in the revival of German art and continued to paint until his death in 1955.
