Lovis Corinth

Lovis Corinth (1858-1925) was a German painter and printmaker whose career spanned the transition from Impressionism to Expressionism. Born in Tapiau, East Prussia (present-day Russia), Corinth began his artistic journey at the Königsberg Academy before moving to Munich to further his studies. He later immersed himself in the Parisian art scene, where he absorbed influences from Impressionist masters like Édouard Manet and Pierre-Auguste Renoir. Corinth's early works reflect a deep engagement with Realism and Naturalism, but as he evolved, his style became more expressive, characterized by bold brushwork, vivid colors, and a strong sense of light and shadow. His subjects ranged widely, from portraits that captured the psychological depth of his sitters to religious themes that revealed his fascination with the human form within spiritual contexts. In 1910, Corinth joined the Berlin Secession, a group of avant-garde artists seeking to break away from traditional academic art. Although initially associated with Impressionism, Corinth’s work during this period displayed an increasing tendency towards Expressionism, which became especially evident after a stroke in 1911. This event profoundly affected his art; despite physical limitations, Corinth produced some of his most intense and emotionally charged pieces post-recovery. His contributions to graphic arts were equally significant. Corinth was a master of etching and lithography, creating powerful prints that resonated with the same intensity as his paintings. Notable among these are his self-portraits, which offer a stark introspective view into his life and experiences. Throughout his career, Corinth held a teaching position at the Berlin Academy, influencing a generation of young artists. His legacy lies not only in his body of work but also in his role as a bridge between the late 19th-century movements and the burgeoning modern art trends of the early 20th century. His notable works include "Salome," "The Artist and His Model," and various landscapes and still lifes that showcase his ability to infuse everyday scenes with emotional power and vitality. Despite passing away in 1925, Lovis Corinth's innovative approach to color, form, and expression continues to influence artists and captivate viewers today.