Georg Baselitz

Definition

Georg Baselitz is a German painter and sculptor known for his distinctive style that often involves upside-down figures and a raw, expressive approach to painting. His work emerged in the context of post-World War II art, reflecting a reaction against Abstract Expressionism and exploring themes of identity, history, and trauma.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Baselitz is particularly known for his technique of turning paintings upside down, which challenges viewers' perceptions and invites them to engage with the artwork in a new way.
2. He often draws inspiration from German history and personal experiences, which is reflected in the emotional weight of his subjects.
3. In the 1960s, Baselitz gained international recognition and became a leading figure in the Neo-Expressionist movement, which sought to reinvigorate figurative painting.
4. His works often depict themes of alienation and existentialism, providing commentary on the human condition in a post-war context.
5. Baselitz's contributions have influenced a generation of artists who seek to explore the intersection of abstraction and figuration.

Review Questions

• How does Georg Baselitz's technique of painting figures upside down influence the viewer's interpretation of his work?
  • By painting figures upside down, Baselitz forces viewers to reassess their perception and understanding of the artwork. This technique disrupts conventional viewing habits and encourages a deeper engagement with the themes and emotions presented. The inversion also reflects his exploration of identity and history, prompting audiences to think critically about how they relate to the subjects depicted.
• Discuss how Baselitz's work represents a shift away from Abstract Expressionism while still engaging with its core themes.
  • Baselitz's approach marked a departure from Abstract Expressionism by reintroducing figurative elements into his paintings while still maintaining an emotive quality. He uses vibrant colors and expressive brushwork similar to Abstract Expressionists but grounds his work in recognizable forms that reflect personal and collective histories. This combination allows him to critique the abstract tendencies of his predecessors while still exploring themes of emotion and trauma.
• Evaluate the impact of Georg Baselitz's contributions to the Neo-Expressionist movement and its significance in contemporary art.
  • Georg Baselitz played a crucial role in shaping the Neo-Expressionist movement by reviving figurative painting during a time dominated by minimalism and conceptual art. His focus on raw emotional expression and personal narrative resonated with artists seeking to reconnect with traditional forms while addressing contemporary issues. Baselitz's influence is evident in how subsequent artists incorporate figurative elements into their work, bridging the gap between abstraction and representation, which has helped redefine contemporary art practices.

Related terms

Neo-Expressionism:

A revival of expressionist art in the late 20th century that emphasizes intense colors, dramatic imagery, and emotional content.

German Art After WWII: The artistic movements and styles that developed in Germany following the end of World War II, often characterized by a focus on memory, trauma, and cultural identity.

Figuration: The use of recognizable figures or forms in art, often contrasted with abstraction; Baselitz's work often blends figuration with expressive techniques.