Max Beckmann

Max Beckmann was born in Leipzig, Germany, in 1884 and became one of the most powerful and complex artists of the 20th century. He began with academic training but soon developed a highly personal style marked by bold forms and intense psychological depth. Beckmann’s work often explores themes of suffering, exile, and the human condition. His paintings reflect the turmoil of modern life shaped by war and political instability.

Although often associated with Expressionism, Beckmann rejected strict classification within any movement. His compositions are dense and symbolic, frequently using mythological and theatrical imagery. After being labeled a degenerate artist by the Nazi regime, he lived in exile in the Netherlands and later the United States. Beckmann remained prolific despite displacement and hardship. He died in 1950. His art is remembered for its emotional intensity, moral weight, and enduring relevance.