Kirchner’s Influence on Swiss Art and the Rot-Blau group
The MASI Museum in Lugano is hosting an extraordinary exhibition "Ernst Ludwig Kirchner and the artists of the Rot-Blau group" dedicated to Ernst Ludwig Kirchner (1880-1938), the foremost figure of German Expressionism.
This showcase delves into Kirchner's profound influence, presenting a fascinating dialogue between his works and those of the Basilea-based "Rot-Blau" group, which he helped establish between 1923 and 1927. The Rot-Blau group, featuring artists like Hermann Scherer, Albert Müller, and Paul Camenisch, is celebrated for its distinct expressionist style, particularly in the depiction of Alpine landscapes of Switzerland. The exhibition highlights the stylistic and thematic connections between Kirchner and these Swiss artists, underscoring his pivotal role in shaping their artistic vision.
Did You Know?
Kirchner was not only a trailblazer in Expressionism but also one of the most persecuted artists during the Nazi regime. Over 639 of his works were confiscated, labeled as "Degenerate Art," in a campaign that sought to suppress his genius. This relentless censorship deeply affected Kirchner, leading him to take his own life in exile in Davos in 1938.
The exhibition "Ernst Ludwig Kirchner and the artists of the Rot-Blau group" at the MASI Lugano until 23 March 2025.