VIEW FROM THE EDGE (expressionism)

Question 1

Kandinsky, Small Pleasures 1913

Answer 1

1. Relates to the Book of Revelations.
2. Reflects the German interest in an apocalyptic event (WWI will reform society and turn it into something better).
3. Includes both recognizable and abstract imagery to sensitize the viewer, teach them to see the deeper message of the painting.
4. Romantic image of the storm-tossed boat shows the plight of humankind.

Question 2

Max Beckmann, Night 1918-19

Answer 2

• war ended, German loss
• politically unstable in Germany
• violent home invasion

Question 3

Oskar Kokoschka, Portrait of Adolf Loos 1909

Answer 3

He believed he paralleled his point of view

• Expressionists: work very rapidly: very physical execution
• • displays psychology of the creator
• portraits were alike in the psychological sense
• it is in their distortion that the truth is found

Question 4

Van Gogh, Self Portrait 1889

Answer 4

• compulsive, restless all over ornament of the background, recalling work of mental patients- done in a psychotic state.
• shows a masterly control and power of observation, a mind perfectly capable of integrating the elements of its chosen activity
• background reminds us of the rhythms of The Starry Night,

Question 5

Van Gogh, The Sower 1888

Answer 5

• Flat- looking at Japanese prints
• Materialistic
• Think paint surface
• Earthy materialist message of the thick paint
• Halo of sun over the sower
• Symbolism of wheat