Free secession

The Free Secession was a significant movement in the art world, formed in Berlin in 1914 and active until about 1923. This group came into existence after a split from the Berlin Secession, which had lost many of its members, including key artists. Max Liebermann, a co-founder and former leader of the Berlin Secession, played a pivotal role in the Free Secession, serving as its honorary president.

The Free Secession stood out as an association of modern artists, renowned for organizing joint exhibitions that diverged from traditional art norms. This group was a congregation of around 50 artists, showcasing various styles and perspectives. Among its notable members were Ernst Barlach, Max Beckmann, Käthe Kollwitz, Max Slevogt, and Heinrich Zille, each bringing unique contributions to the collective.

Max Liebermann, a central figure in this movement, was known for his impressionist works. His paintings often depicted scenes of leisure and everyday life, reflecting a shift from rural, working-class themes to more bourgeois settings. His works, such as "The Birch Alley in the Garden of Wannsee" and "Terrace at the Restaurant Jacob in Nienstedten on the Elbe," are characterized by their vibrant, impressionistic style. Liebermann's villa at Wannsee, where he painted many of his later works, became a significant location for his creative output.

The Free Secession's influence was not just confined to exhibitions but extended to challenging the traditional art market and dealer systems, allowing for a more inclusive and diverse art scene. This movement, under Liebermann's guidance, played a crucial role in shaping modern art in Germany during its active years.

For art collectors and experts, the Free Secession represents an important chapter in the history of modern art. The works and philosophy of this group and its members, such as Liebermann, offer insights into a transformative period in art, marked by a push for innovation and a break from established norms.

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