Christian Rohlfs

Christian Rohlfs was a significant figure in the German Expressionist movement, celebrated for his distinctive and emotive style that transcended traditional boundaries. Born on January 22, 1849, in Wuppertal-Elberfeld, Germany, Rohlfs initially embarked on a career in the civil service before an illness prompted him to explore his passion for art at the relatively advanced age of thirty-four. Rohlfs's artistic journey began with formal training at the Weimar Saxon-Grand Ducal Art School under the tutelage of such luminaries as Theodor Hagen. However, it wasn't until later in life that his work truly took flight, aligning with the expressive tendencies of modernist movements following his exposure to the works of Vincent van Gogh and Edvard Munch. His brushwork became more vigorous and impastoed, reflecting a deep emotional resonance and a raw, unfiltered view of the world around him. Throughout his extensive career, which spanned several decades, Rohlfs produced an oeuvre that included landscapes, portraits, and still lifes. His use of bold colors and jagged lines imbued his canvases with a sense of vitality and tension, often characterized by a stark contrast between light and dark hues. Notably, his late works from the early 20th century are recognized for their spontaneity and directness, echoing the dynamism of Die Brücke artists, even though he maintained an independent path outside these groups. Despite his late start, Christian Rohlfs gained considerable recognition during his lifetime and is remembered posthumously as one of the most important German expressionists. His influence extended beyond his own time, impacting future generations of artists who admired his courage to break away from conventional forms and his ability to convey profound human sentiments through his art. He continued to paint prolifically until his death on December 8, 1938, leaving behind a legacy of powerful and evocative pieces that stand testament to his unique vision and contribution to modern art history. Through his works, Rohlfs not only captured the spirit of the era but also challenged the norms of painting, pioneering a new language of expressionism that resonates with viewers to this day.