Graphic classic modern — Classic Modern, Post War & Contemporary Art
Georg Gerhard Schrimpf was a German self-taught painter and graphic artist, one of the greatest representatives of the New Objectivity movement.
Earning a living as a baker, waiter and so on, Georg constantly painted and perfected this skill. In 1915, Schrimpf moved to Berlin, where he first worked in a chocolate factory. He soon attracted the attention of the art historian, gallerist and publicist Gerwart Walden, who successfully exhibited Schrimpf's first oil paintings. He also created woodcuts for magazines. In 1920, Schrimpf exhibited for the first time at the New Secession exhibition at the Glass Palace in Munich, and a year later became a member of this group.
The motifs of Schrimpf's works were often women in melancholy moods, and his landscapes are of desolate, pure nature.
From 1926 to 1933 Schrimpf taught at the Munich School of Applied Arts, in 1933 he was appointed assistant professor at the Royal Art School in Berlin, and then the Nazi regime that came to power in Germany declared the artist's work degenerate, and 33 of Schrimpf's works were withdrawn from German museums. By the end of 1937, Georg Schrimpf was relieved of his teaching position in Berlin and died of heart failure a few months later at the age of 49.
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Joseph Fernand Henri Léger was a French artist renowned for his innovative approach to Cubism and his transition towards a figurative, populist style. Born in Argentan, Orne, Lower Normandy, Léger's early career was marked by a stint as an architectural draftsman and a series of educational pursuits that eventually led him to Paris, where he embraced painting seriously. His artistic journey was significantly influenced by the bold abstractions of Cubism, characterized by geometric shapes and a vibrant palette, distinguishing his work from his contemporaries with what came to be known as "Tubism".
Léger's service in World War I profoundly impacted his artistic direction, leading him to adopt a 'mechanical' style that depicted the modern industrial world with sleek, tubular forms. This period saw creations like "Soldier with a Pipe" and "The Card Players," reflecting his war experiences and the mechanical aesthetics of the time. The post-war era encouraged Léger to explore the mechanical style further, evident in works like "The Bargeman" and "Mechanical Elements," highlighting the pace of technological advancement.
Throughout his career, Léger's work evolved, notably in the 1920s, where he aligned with Purist ideas, blending classicism with modernity. This phase is exemplified in "Woman with a Cat," showcasing a classical form with a modern, polished finish. By the 1930s, Léger's art took a more figurative, populist turn, aiming to democratize contemporary art and make it more accessible. His commitment to art education, especially for the common worker, underscored his belief in the social role of art.
For those intrigued by Joseph Fernand Henri Léger's groundbreaking contributions to modern art, his works can be found in prestigious museums worldwide. His legacy continues to inspire art collectors and enthusiasts alike. To stay updated on exhibitions and auction events featuring Léger's work, sign up for updates and embrace the unique opportunity to explore the richness of his artistic endeavors.
