Week 17: Figure Drawing - Arms
Egon Schiele, an Austrian painter born on June 12, 1890, in Tulln, Austria, was a pivotal figure in the early 20th-century Expressionist movement. Schiele's work is characterized by its raw emotional intensity, bold lines, and unconventional compositions. He often explored themes of sexuality, death, and self-exploration, which were both controversial and groundbreaking at the time. Schiele's distinctive style, marked by twisted body shapes and stark, expressive lines, set him apart from his contemporaries and influenced future generations of artists.
Schiele studied at the Vienna Academy of Fine Arts but left early to follow his unique artistic vision. He was heavily influenced by Gustav Klimt, who became his mentor and supporter. Despite his short life—he died at the age of 28 from the Spanish flu—Schiele produced a substantial body of work, including paintings, drawings, and watercolors, that continue to captivate and challenge viewers.
Famous Works
1. "Self-Portrait with Physalis" (1912):
This self-portrait is one of Schiele's most famous works, showcasing his characteristic use of intense, expressive lines and a bold, almost confrontational gaze. The inclusion of the physalis plant adds a symbolic element, often interpreted as a representation of Schiele's inner life and vitality.
2. "The Embrace" (1917):
This painting, also known as "Lovers II," depicts a tender yet intense moment between two lovers. The twisted, interlocking forms of the figures highlight Schiele's fascination with human intimacy and emotional complexity.
3. "Death and the Maiden" (1915):
This work reflects Schiele's preoccupation with themes of mortality and existential angst. The composition, showing a woman clinging to a skeletal figure, is both haunting and deeply moving, encapsulating the fragile nature of life.