A catalogue of Expressionist masters
Among the Expressionist painters, Wassily Kandinsky (1866–1944) holds the first place, celebrated for Several Circles, Solomon R. G and Composition VII. Edvard Munch, Jean Michel Basquiat, Paul Klee and Jackson Pollock follow. The catalogue spans 100 masters, from Christian Rohlfs (born 1849) to Jean Michel Basquiat (born 1960), across 31 countries.
About this catalogue. This catalogue gathers the artists whose works our collection records as Expressionist, ordered by our fame ranking. Artists born after 1955 with no Wikidata record await verification. Beside each name, the number of our 32 languages in which Wikipedia devotes an article to the artist.
The collection in brief
Master by master
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Russian Born in Moscow ['Expressionism', 'Abstract painting', 'Der Blaue Reiter'] Wikipedia, 32 of 32 languages
Seeing Claude Monet’s “Haystacks” changed the way he perceived light and color. By about 1896, he had moved to Munich to begin formal studies in art.
On view at His canvases are scattered across several major institutions, inviting a close look at how his use of color and form evolved.
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Norwegian Born in Ådalsbruk ['Expressionism', 'Symbolism']
Instead, he sought to externalize his internal state, a method he called soul painting. He used distorted forms and rhythmic lines to communicate the tremors of human existence, turning psychological distress into a visible, tangible form. In Paris, he encountered the techniques of artists like Paul Gauguin and Vincent van Gogh.
On view at The Munch Museum is the primary guardian of his legacy, housing a vast collection that spans the full range of his artistic output.
Principal works · The hundred celebrated works
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American Born in Park Slope Neo-Expressionism Wikipedia, 29 of 32 languages
His paintings weren’t easily categorized; they were a unique synthesis of influences ranging from Abstract Expressionism to tribal art, comic books, and historical painting. Paintings like Piscine versus the Best Hotels (or various loin) exemplify his ability to juxtapose seemingly disparate elements—luxury and deprivation, beauty and decay—creating a powerful commentary on social inequalities. In the years since his death, Basquiat’s reputation has only grown.
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German and Swiss Born in Münchenbuchsee Expressionism, Cubism, Surrealism Wikipedia, 31 of 32 languages
His approach to a canvas was rarely about simple imitation; instead, he built his compositions through a highly individual style influenced by expressionism, cubism, and surrealism. He was also a prolific printmaker, utilizing zinc-plate etchings and lithographs to expand his visual language.
On view at To find the traces of his prolific output, one might travel to Bern, Switzerland.
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American Born in Cody Abstract Expressionism Wikipedia, 31 of 32 languages
By 1947, a profound shift had taken hold in the way he approached the canvas. This change allowed him to stand over his work, becoming part of the creative act itself. His presence helped solidify New York City's position as a global center for modern art, moving the heart of the avant-garde away from European dominance.
On view at In New York City, the Museum of Modern Art holds several of his canvases, allowing viewers to stand before the sprawling, uncentered compositions that defined his era.
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Italian Born in Livorno Expressionism Wikipedia, 32 of 32 languages
In 1907, he met the German Expressionist painter Ludwig Meidner, and his social circle continued to expand through encounters with the writer Blaise Cendrars and the critic Adolphe Basler. He became close friends with the Romanian sculptor Constantin Brâncuși, a relationship that would influence his own approach to form.
On view at In the United States, the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York holds significant pieces, including a portrait of Jeanne Hebuterne from 1918.
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Austrian Born in Tulln an der Donau Austrian Expressionism Wikipedia, 32 of 32 languages
He moves through the city's artistic circles, eventually meeting Gustav Klimt. By 1909, he is actively challenging the established order, co-founding the Neues Wiener Kunstgruppe and the Neukunstgruppe. His departure from the decorative gold of the Secession movement toward a more visceral, psychological exploration of the human form changed the trajectory of figurative painting.
On view at The weight of Schiele’s output is felt most heavily in Vienna.
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Irish Born in Dublin Expressionism, Cubism, Surrealism Wikipedia, 30 of 32 languages
He worked with oils and large brushes, applying paint in a way that felt heavy and immediate. Three Studies for Figures at the Base of a Crucifixion (1944).
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German Born in Dresden Wikipedia, 28 of 32 languages
After dropping out of school at age fifteen, Richter enters the industrial landscape of post-war Germany. In 1951, he begins formal studies at the Dresden Academy of Fine Arts. In 1972, he represented West Germany at the Venice Biennale, a moment that solidified his standing on the international stage.
On view at The physical presence of Richter’s practice spans major institutional collections across Europe.
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Dutch-American Born in Rotterdam Abstract Expressionism Wikipedia, 30 of 32 languages
From his teenage years until 1924, he attends these classes in Rotterdam, balancing the demands of work with the study of formal art. This period of focused training provides the essential tools for the radical shifts that await him across the Atlantic. He moves through a landscape of ideas, absorbing the influence of Stuart Davis and John Graham, whose presence helps steer his vocabulary away from literal depiction.
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American Born in Augusta Wikipedia, 24 of 32 languages
This method allows for a physical depth that sits on the canvas, sometimes incorporating collage and newsprint directly into the wax. These layers do not suggest a quick, spontaneous gesture. Later, in 2011, he received the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
On view at To see his paintings and sculptures in person, one might travel to New York City.
Principal works · The hundred celebrated works
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American Born in Daugavpils ['Color Field painting', 'Abstract Expressionism']
After time spent at Yale University, the pull of the city led him away from formal academics. By 1940, he made the decision to change his name to Mark Rothko. His paintings are recognized as some of the most significant works of 20th-century art, often found in the permanent collections of major institutions like the Museum of Modern Art in New York and the Tate Modern in London.
On view at To stand before his canvases is to experience the weight of color in a quiet room.
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German Born in Kreuzstraße German Expressionism Wikipedia, 31 of 32 languages
It was in Paris that he encountered the work of Vincent van Gogh. Robert Delaunay’s exploration of abstract forms and intense color palettes provided a blueprint for Marc’s own movement toward simplification. His time in France, specifically during visits to Paris in 1903 and 1907, acted as a catalyst for this departure.
On view at The Franz Marc Museum in Kochel am See, Germany, functions as a primary site for his legacy, housing over 150 of his works.
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Austrian, Czech, British Born in Pöchlarn Expressionism, Viennese Avant-Garde Wikipedia, 29 of 32 languages
Kokoschka’s approach to the canvas was far from the polished, academic methods taught in traditional schools. His work often felt restless, as if the paint itself were struggling to settle. In 1909, he wrote the short play Murderer, the Hope of Women, which is often recognized as one of the first Expressionist dramas.
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German Born in Aschaffenburg German Expressionism Wikipedia, 32 of 32 languages
Ernst Ludwig Kirchner was born on 6 May 1880 in Aschaffenburg, Germany. After obtaining his school-leaving certificate in 1901, he enrolled at the university in Dresden to study architecture. Kirchner remains a central figure of the German Expressionist movement, a presence that helped define the visual language of a transformative era.
On view at The physical presence of Kirchner’s vision is scattered across several major institutions, reflecting the international reach of his influence.
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Armenian-American Born in Dilkaya Abstract Expressionism, Surrealism Wikipedia, 24 of 32 languages
Seeking a different path, he enrolled in classes at the New England School of Art. One such early work, a self-portrait from about 1923–24, uses gestural marks to define the features of the face, focusing on the bridge of the nose and the weight of a collar. He acted as a bridge, connecting the Surrealist painters of Europe to the emerging American movement.
On view at To see the physical traces of his hand, one might travel to Washington, D.C.
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German-Danish Born in Nolde German Expressionism Wikipedia, 28 of 32 languages
Born Hans Emil Hansen, he grew up on a farm in the Duchy of Schleswig. He eventually adopted the name Emil Nolde, a choice that marked a departure from his family's expectations and a step toward his own identity. He looked toward the work of Paul Gauguin and found a way to move beyond simple representation.
On view at Tracing his presence in public collections reveals a scattered but significant trail.
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German Born in Untermhaus ['Neue Sachlichkeit', 'Dadaism', 'Expressionism'] Wikipedia, 28 of 32 languages
The environment shaping Otto Dix is one of stark industrial labor and quiet, poetic undertones. The path toward professional training begins in 1906. Otto Dix remains a central figure in 20th-century German painting.
On view at The physical presence of Dix’s vision remains scattered across major international institutions.
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Belgian Born in Ostend ['Symbolism', 'Expressionism'] Wikipedia, 25 of 32 languages
Growing up, the artist lived within the walls of a souvenir shop operated by his parents in Ostend. From 1877 to 1880, he attended the Académie Royale des Beaux-Arts in Brussels.
On view at Ensor’s presence in major international collections confirms his lasting impact on the development of modernism.
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French Born in Smilavičy Expressionism Wikipedia, 26 of 32 languages
While often categorized as an Expressionist, to label Soutine solely within this framework feels limiting. His style was profoundly individual, a compelling synthesis of traditional European painting —particularly the Dutch Masters like Rembrandt and Chardin, and the Realism of Courbet—filtered through a lens of raw emotional intensity.
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German Born in Leipzig Expressionism, New Objectivity Wikipedia, 27 of 32 languages
By 1912, he was already tackling ambitious subjects that required a command of large-scale composition. One such work was his painting of The Sinking of the Titanic, a piece that demonstrated his ability to handle complex, dramatic narratives. Even as he navigated the difficult years of exile in Amsterdam and his eventual move to the United States, his voice remained distinct.
On view at Finding the physical traces of Beckmann's life requires traveling through the cities that shaped his exile and his later years.
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Austrian Born in Vienna Organic architecture, Spiral art Wikipedia, 29 of 32 languages
Difficult Beginnings: Hundertwasser’s early life was marked by hardship, particularly during the Nazi era. The Spiral Motif: The spiral became a central motif in Hundertwasser’s work, symbolizing growth, harmony, and the cyclical nature of life – a direct contrast to the rigid geometry he despised. Advocacy for Constitutional Monarchy: Hundertwasser also expressed strong political views, advocating for a constitutional monarchy in Austria and criticizing the European Union's perceived disregard for regional peculiarities.
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German Born in Donaueschingen Neo-Expressionism Wikipedia, 23 of 32 languages
Whether he is depicting the brooding shadows of Roman emperors or the desolate landscapes of post-war Europe, his work remains a continuous dialogue with the concept of time itself.
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British Born in Berlin Realism, Figurative art Wikipedia, 23 of 32 languages
Freud’s technical approach was integral to the emotional impact of his paintings. He favored large hogs-hair brushes, applying paint with a physicality mirroring the subject matter itself. Lucian Freud’s 60-year career left an indelible mark on British portraiture, challenging conventional notions of beauty and representation.
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German Born in Königsberg Expressionism Wikipedia, 28 of 32 languages
Formal training began at age twelve under the guidance of local artists Gustav Naujok and Rudolf Mauer in Königsberg, laying the groundwork for a lifelong dedication to visual storytelling. She continued her studies in Berlin and Munich, immersing herself in the artistic currents of the late 19th century, but always returning to the human condition as her central subject. In 1919, she achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first woman elected to the Prussian Academy of Arts—a testament to her artistic achievements and growing influence.
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French Born in 19th arrondissement of Paris Expressionism, Fauvism Wikipedia, 23 of 32 languages
In later life, he received commissions for religious works, including designs for Sergei Diaghilev’s ballet The Prodigal Son, further cementing his reputation as a uniquely devout artist.
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Scottish-American Born in Lawnton Architectural sculpture Wikipedia, 28 of 32 languages
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Mexican Born in Chihuahua City Social Realism, Muralism Wikipedia, 24 of 32 languages
As one of the “big three” Mexican muralists – alongside Diego Rivera and José Clemente Orozco – he played an instrumental role in establishing Mexican muralism as a significant artistic movement, transforming public spaces into canvases for social commentary.
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American Born in Manhattan Abstract Expressionism, Color Field Wikipedia, 19 of 32 languages
In the early 1960s, she embraced acrylic paints, drawn to their brighter hues and ability to create sharper delineations between forms. She even ventured into theatrical design, creating sets and costumes for the Royal Ballet. Frankenthaler’s impact on the art world was recognized early in her career with inclusion in the influential “Fifteen Unknowns” exhibition in 1950 and her first solo show at Tibor de Nagy Gallery in 1951.
Pupil of Hans Hofmann #72
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American Born in Lexington Abstract Expressionism, Postmodern Wikipedia, 21 of 32 languages
Works like the Ferragosto series (1961) and The Italians (1961) exemplify this period—paintings that seem to exist between calligraphy and chaos, evoking both ancient inscriptions and the immediacy of graffiti. Cold Stream (1966), with its swirling loops and bold text, is a powerful example of this evocative style. He paved the way for painters like Jean-Michel Basquiat, Anselm Kiefer, Francesco Clemente, and Julian Schnabel, who embraced a similar spirit of experimentation and emotional intensity.
Pupil of Franz Kline #42, Robert Motherwell #41
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German-American Born in New York City Expressionism, Cubism Wikipedia, 23 of 32 languages
Notable Works: Some of his significant works include " Werder I " (watercolor), " Gaberndorf II " (paper), and " Boats " (cubism, oil on canvas). Musical Compositions: He also composed several piano pieces and fugues for organ, revealing another facet of his artistic talent. First Solo Exhibition: His first solo exhibition at the Sturm Gallery in Berlin (1917) was a pivotal moment, establishing him as a prominent figure in the art world.
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American Born in New York City Abstract Expressionism Wikipedia, 23 of 32 languages
His innovative use of color and form profoundly influenced subsequent generations of artists, particularly those working in Color Field painting and Minimalism.
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Czech Born in Opočno ['Realism', 'Symbolism', 'Orphism', 'Cubism', 'Abstraction'] Wikipedia, 24 of 32 languages
He spent time at the Académie Julian before moving on to study with Jean-Pierre Laurens at the École des Beaux-Arts. By 1906, he had settled in Puteaux, a suburb of Paris. His creative output is often viewed alongside the works of Piet Mondrian and Wassily Kandinsky, marking a shift toward a visual language that prioritized the interaction of color and shape over the depiction of the physical world.
On view at To see his canvases in person, one might travel to New York City.
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German Born in Dresden Expressionism Wikipedia, 24 of 32 languages
Paula Modersohn-Becker, a name that resonates with quiet power in the annals of early modern art, was an artist who dared to look inward. She received early training in London and Berlin, but it was the atmosphere of Worpswede, an artists' colony north of Bremen, that truly ignited her creative spirit. A pivotal moment came with her travels to Paris in 1899 and subsequent visits in 1903 and 1905.
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American Born in Brooklyn Neo-Expressionism
This approach aligned him with the burgeoning Neo- Expressionist movement, a reaction against the conceptual rigor of the preceding decades, which prioritized subjective experience and emotional resonance. His works are now held in major museum collections worldwide, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art, MoMA, the Whitney Museum, Tate Modern, and the Centre Pompidou—a testament to his enduring impact on contemporary art.
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German Born in Deutschbaselitz Neo-Expressionism Wikipedia, 26 of 32 languages
His achievements include: Redefining Figuration: Breaking the reliance on narrative content through the radical use of inversion.
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American Born in Brooklyn Abstract Expressionism Wikipedia, 17 of 32 languages
From her early days at Washington Irving High School for Girls, where a focused course in visual arts first ignited her creative spirit, to her rigorous training at Cooper Union’s Women's Art School, Krasner possessed a foundational discipline that would later serve as the bedrock for her most radical experiments.
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German Born in Rottluff Expressionism Wikipedia, 25 of 32 languages
Bold Lines & Stark Contrasts: Particularly evident in his woodcuts, these elements create a sense of immediacy and emotional intensity. Landscape Focus: Throughout his career, he remained committed to depicting landscapes, often imbued with a sense of melancholy and isolation. His paintings, woodcuts, lithographs, and etchings are held in major museums worldwide, including the Museum of Modern Art (New York), the Neue Galerie (New York), and the Los Angeles County Museum of Art.
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German-French Born in Leipzig Gestural Abstract Expressionism Wikipedia, 15 of 32 languages
Born in 1904 in the historic city of Leipzig, Germany, Hartung’s early consciousness was shaped by a deep reverence for the masters of light and shadow. His formative years were steeped in the emotive power of European Expressionism, drawing strength from the works of Rembrandt and the raw, visceral energy of German painters such as Lovis Corinth and Emil Nolde. His debut exhibition in Dresden in 1931 had already signaled the arrival of a major talent, but it was his later ability to bridge the gap between European abstraction and the burgeoning American lyrical abstraction movement that cemented his historical importance.
Principal works · The hundred celebrated works
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British Born in Berlin School of London Wikipedia, 17 of 32 languages
Auerbach quickly emerged as a leading figure within the loosely defined “School of London,” a group of artists—including Francis Bacon and Lucian Freud —who shared a commitment to figurative painting, psychological depth, and a gritty realism. The 1950s saw Auerbach establishing his presence through exhibitions at the Beaux Arts Gallery in London. He represented Britain at the Venice Biennale in 1986, sharing the Golden Lion with Sigmar Polke —a testament to his international standing.
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American Born in Aberdeen Abstract Expressionism Wikipedia, 16 of 32 languages
Early Education & Influences: Motherwell’s formative years were spent at Stanford University where he immersed himself in philosophy alongside fellow modernist Arthur Oncken Lovejoy and David Wite Prall. Shapiro introduced him to the vibrant world of Parisian Surrealists – Max Ernst, André Breton, Wolfgang Paalen —and crucially, encouraged him to embrace “automatic” drawing as a method for accessing the subconscious.
Master of Cy Twombly #30
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American Born in Wilkes-Barre Abstract Expressionism Wikipedia, 17 of 32 languages
His “Hot Jazz” mural series from 1940, commissioned for a Greenwich Village tavern, signaled a shift towards simplification, hinting at the bold forms to come. De Kooning suggested projecting one of Kline’s sketches onto a wall using a Bell-Opticon projector – an act that dramatically enlarged and transformed the image, reducing it to its essential strokes. By the 1950s, Franz Kline had achieved significant recognition within the New York School—an informal group of artists including Jackson Pollock, Willem de Kooning, Robert Motherwell, and Lee Krasner who were redefining American art.
Master of Cy Twombly #30
Principal works · The hundred celebrated works
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Scottish Born in Edinburgh Figurative painting
He doesn’t adhere to any single school or movement; instead, his work feels like a synthesis of diverse influences, absorbed and transformed through the lens of personal experience. The echoes of earlier masters are palpable—the melancholic landscapes of Edvard Munch, the raw intensity of H.C. Westermann, the romantic sublimity of Caspar David Friedrich, the shimmering light of Claude Monet, and the decorative richness of Gustav Klimt all find resonance in his canvases.
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Indian Born in Pandharpur Cubist narrative paintings Wikipedia, 14 of 32 languages
Husain extends far beyond the borders of India, marking him as a true global ambassador of modernism. His ability to synthesize the structural rigor of Western abstraction with the emotive richness of Eastern storytelling created a unique visual dialect that resonated across continents. As his artistic consciousness matured, Husain became a central protagonist in the Bombay Progressive Artists' Group (BPAG).
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German Born in Meschede Expressionism, Fauvism, Orphism, Cubism Wikipedia, 28 of 32 languages
Macke sought to capture the inner spirit of a scene rather than the mere surface of things. He found a way to weave the dynamism of Italian Futurism into his compositions, imbuing his scenes with a sense of movement and modern energy. A transformative moment arrived in 1912 when he encountered Robert Delaunay.
On view at To walk through the rooms where his spirit remains, one might travel to Bonn, Germany.
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Russian Born in Torzhok Expressionism Wikipedia, 23 of 32 languages
The move to Munich in 1894 changed everything for Jawlensky. He was a key member of the Neue Künstlervereinigung München, a group that pushed the boundaries of what art could be. His contribution to the movement was marked by a specific, inward-looking quality.
On view at Finding the traces of Jawlensky's life requires traveling through several European cities where his presence remains felt.
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Canadian-American Born in Montreal ['Abstract Expressionism', 'Neo-Expressionism'] Wikipedia, 15 of 32 languages
He later embraced abstraction, becoming a prominent figure in the New York School alongside artists like Jackson Pollock and Willem de Kooning. Shift to Figuration: In the mid-1960s, he dramatically renounced abstraction, pioneering a modified form of representational art known as neo-expressionism. He began drawing at a young age and attended Los Angeles Manual Arts High School, where he started painting in 1927.
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German Born in Gvardeysk Impressionism & Expressionism Wikipedia, 24 of 32 languages
He didn’t simply adopt the broken color and fleeting light effects of Monet or Renoir; instead, he integrated these elements into his own unique vision, creating a style that blended impressionistic vibrancy with a distinctly German sensibility. A pivotal moment in Corinth’s life – and arguably in his artistic development – was a stroke he suffered in December 1911.
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American Born in Gladwyne Expressionism, Realism Wikipedia, 16 of 32 languages
Style: Expressionistic use of line and color; psychological acuity; emotional intensity. Notable works include "Well Baby Clinic," a bleak portrayal of mothers and babies in a maternity clinic. Received a National Women’s Caucus for Art award from President Jimmy Carter in 1979.
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Born in Beijing ['1920s Art Deco', 'Expressionism', 'Abstract art'] Wikipedia, 12 of 32 languages
The genesis of an artist’s style is rarely a singular event but rather a confluence of experiences, influences, and evolving perspectives. Furthermore, the burgeoning interest in psychology, spearheaded by figures like Sigmund Freud, fueled explorations into the hidden depths of the human psyche—a theme that would become increasingly prominent in their work.
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Swiss Born in Wachseldorn Expressionism, Bauhaus Wikipedia, 21 of 32 languages
This divergence of philosophies ultimately led to his resignation in 1923. In 1926, he founded a small art and architecture school in Berlin, where Ernst Neufert, a former Bauhaus architect, also taught, continuing to disseminate his innovative pedagogical methods. Johannes Itten, born in 1888 in the tranquil Swiss village of Südern-Linden, was more than just a painter; he was a visionary educator who fundamentally reshaped the landscape of modern art instruction.
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Polish Born in Warsaw Symbolism, Surrealism Wikipedia, 27 of 32 languages
Stanisław Ignacy Witkiewicz, known to most as Witkacy, remains a pivotal yet often enigmatic figure in the landscape of 20th-century art. Returning to Poland after the war, he settled in Zakopane, a mountain resort town already steeped in artistic innovation thanks to his father’s pioneering “Zakopane Style” architecture which blended local traditions with Art Nouveau influences.
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German Born in Döbeln German Expressionism Wikipedia, 22 of 32 languages
Die Brücke’s Aims: The group aimed to bridge traditional neo-romantic German painting with modern Expressionist approaches. Printmaking Focus: The group made extensive use of printmaking (woodcuts, etchings, lithographs) to create affordable art and disseminate their ideas widely. Expressionist Pioneer: Erich Heckel is recognized as a key figure in the Expressionist movement, particularly for his contributions to Die Brücke.
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Austrian-American Born in Vienna Twelve-tone technique; Expressionism Wikipedia, 31 of 32 languages
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Russian-German-Swiss Born in Tula Expressionism, Symbolism Wikipedia, 21 of 32 languages
The influence of artists like Paul Gauguin and Louis Anquetin, with their emphasis on flattened forms and bold color, became increasingly apparent in her work. In 1909, she co-founded the Neue Künstlervereinigung München (NKVM), a group that served as a crucial precursor to the more famous Blue Rider collective. She was not merely an associate of Kandinsky and Jawlensky; she was a driving force behind the movement’s intellectual and aesthetic innovations, a pioneering theorist who fostered artistic exchange through her influential salon in Munich.
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Spanish Born in Zwickau Cubism, Surrealism Wikipedia, 21 of 32 languages
As his reputation grew, Pechstein’s canvases became windows into the shifting spirit of post-WWI Germany.
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Hungarian Born in Budapest Modern Hungarian art Wikipedia, 18 of 32 languages
Born in Budapest on March 15th, 1894, Vilmos Aba-Novák’s early life was marked by an exposure to the visual arts. Following World War I, he briefly served in the Austro-Hungarian Army before dedicating himself fully to his artistic pursuits. His legacy extends beyond individual artworks; he helped to establish a distinctly Hungarian modern style that blended influences from Expressionism, the Italian Novecento, and his own unique artistic vision.
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Serbian Born in Čačak Expressionism & Fauvism Wikipedia, 27 of 32 languages
Nadežda Petrović (Serbian Cyrillic: Надежда Петровић; 11/12 October 1873 – 3 April 1915) was a Serbian painter and one of the women war photography pioneers in the region. Graduating in 1891, she taught there for a period beginning in 1893 before moving to Munich to study with Slovenian artist Anton Ažbe. Studying under Anton Ažbe, a Slovenian artist who championed innovative techniques and stylistic experimentation, she absorbed influences from artists like Edvard Munch and Henri Matisse.
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German Born in Lubawka Expressionism Wikipedia, 19 of 32 languages
He favored distemper – a water-based paint – applied to coarse canvas, creating a matte surface that lent his works an earthy, almost primal quality. This technique contributed significantly to the overall mood of his paintings, evoking a sense of intimacy and vulnerability. After the war, he accepted a professorship at the Academy of Fine Arts in Breslau, dedicating himself to teaching until his death in 1930.
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Belgian Born in Antwerp Flemish Expressionism Wikipedia, 16 of 32 languages
He fundamentally altered the course of Belgian art, paving the way for subsequent generations of Expressionist artists.
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Born in Vidin Wikipedia, 18 of 32 languages
He quickly integrated into circles like “Les Dômiers” at Café le Dome. Early Style and Influences: His early Parisian works were influenced by Fauvism and Cézanne, focusing on portraits and nudes. Influence on Later Artists: His work influenced subsequent generations of artists with its expressive style and focus on human emotion.
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German Born in Groß Niendorf Expressionism Wikipedia, 15 of 32 languages
Later pieces such as “Collegiate Church of St. His prints, particularly those created after 1908, are especially compelling—stark lines and contrasting tones conveying a powerful sense of emotion and psychological tension. The Christian Rohlfs Museum in Hagen, established in 1929, stands as a lasting tribute to his enduring influence on German art and continues to inspire viewers with its powerful and evocative collection.
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German Born in Duisburg Expressionism
Artistic Synthesis: The seamless blending of Rodin's expressive influence with a distinctly German Expressionist sensibility.
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Russian-French Born in Vitebsk Cubism, Modernism Wikipedia, 23 of 32 languages
Initially, Zadkine embraced Cubism from 1914 to 1925, demonstrating a clear understanding of its principles in his early works. Early Influences: Russian folk art, European modernism, African sculpture, Greek antiquity. His friendship with Henry Miller, who immortalized him as "Borowski" in Tropic of Cancer, further cemented his place within the cultural landscape of the era.
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American Born in Grandin Abstract Expressionism Wikipedia, 12 of 32 languages
The transformation from representational work to the radical abstraction for which Still is celebrated occurred between 1938 and 1942, a period of intense experimentation and self-discovery. These paintings weren’t simply depictions; they were imbued with a sense of longing, a quiet contemplation of the human condition within the vastness of the American landscape. In 1959, a comprehensive retrospective of his work at the Albright-Knox Art Gallery in Buffalo, New York, solidified his reputation as a major force in American art.
Principal works · The hundred celebrated works
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Austrian Born in Vienna Expressionism Wikipedia, 15 of 32 languages
Born into a prosperous Jewish merchant family, Gerstl’s early life took an unexpected turn when he declared his intention to become an artist. In 1898, at fifteen, he entered the Academy of Fine Arts Vienna under the demanding Christian Griepenkerl. Summers spent under Simon Hollósy in Nagybánya exposed him to more liberal artistic approaches.
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American Born in Portland ['Abstract Expressionism', 'Bay Area Figurative', 'Lyrical Abstraction'] Wikipedia, 9 of 32 languages
His family’s relocation to San Francisco when he was just two years old proved formative, imbuing his artistic sensibility with the light and atmosphere of California—a landscape that would become inextricably linked to his work. Hopper’s influence is readily apparent in Diebenkorn's early paintings, characterized by a quiet introspection and a masterful handling of light and shadow. Richard Diebenkorn’s influence on postwar American art is undeniable.
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American Born in Rutherford Modernism, Watercolor Wikipedia, 16 of 32 languages
John Marin, born in Rutherford, New Jersey, on December 23, 1870, experienced a childhood marked by early loss. Initially drawn to the practicality of architecture, Marin briefly attended the Stevens Institute of Technology before dedicating himself fully to art. A pivotal moment in Marin’s artistic development arrived with his journey to Europe in 1905.
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British Born in Islington Outsider art, Impressionism
Sims’ early work reflects the prevailing aesthetic tastes of the Edwardian era —refined portraits and idyllic landscapes characterized by delicate brushwork and a harmonious palette. The tragic death of his son during the First World War proved to be a watershed moment. Institutions like the Tate Gallery, the British Museum, and English Heritage hold examples of his work, ensuring his legacy endures.
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Greek Born in Piraeus Surrealism
He studied at the Athens School of Fine Arts, absorbing influences from Impressionism and Symbolism before gravitating towards Surrealism in the mid-1930s. This pivotal shift was catalyzed by encounters with European avant-garde artists—particularly Giorgio Morandi and Fernand Léger —who championed a contemplative approach to artistic expression. His paintings serve as a poignant reminder of Greece's artistic past while simultaneously exploring universal themes of spirituality and contemplation—a legacy that ensures his place among the most distinctive figures of 20th-century Surrealism.
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American Born in New York Abstract Expressionism
His journey wasn’t one of immediate artistic calling; initially drawn to the lyrical power of poetry and literature, Siskind discovered his visual voice almost serendipitously with a camera received as a wedding gift. As a founding member of the Society for Photographic Education in 1963, he actively contributed to the growing recognition of photography as a legitimate art form.
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German-American Born in Weißenburg in Bayern Abstract Expressionism Wikipedia, 14 of 32 languages
His works are now held in prestigious collections worldwide – The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Tate Modern, Germanisches Nationalmuseum, National Gallery of Art, and Art Institute of Chicago among them—ensuring that his vibrant vision continues to inspire generations to come.
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Romanian Born in Iași ['Expressionism', 'Dadaism']
A subsequent period in Paris and Italy allowed him to immerse himself in the vibrant artistic scene of the time, encountering the innovations of Post-Impressionism and early Modernism. The influence of German Expressionism is particularly evident in his woodcuts, many of which tackled themes of war and social injustice with a stark and uncompromising realism.
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Born in Stribach Wikipedia, 13 of 32 languages
He joined the Vienna Secession in 1909, further solidifying his position within the Austrian art scene. His artistic language evolved towards strongly outlined, massive forms painted with an almost monochromatic palette of earth colors.
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American Born in New York City Abstract Expressionism Wikipedia, 12 of 32 languages
Benefiting from initiatives like the Federal Art Project, Gottlieb found support for his artistic endeavors during a period of economic hardship. His time spent in Arizona in 1937-1938 proved transformative; the stark landscapes and ancient Native American cultures sparked a fascination with primal symbolism that would permeate his work. Throughout his career, Adolph Gottlieb exhibited widely in both the United States and Europe, gaining recognition for his unique contribution to American art.
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Canadian Born in Montreal Lyrical Abstraction Wikipedia, 14 of 32 languages
Refus Global: He signed the influential Refus global manifesto in 1948, rejecting clericalism and provincialism within Quebec's artistic community. Move to Paris (1947): His relocation to Paris proved transformative, leading to his first solo exhibition at Galerie La Dragonne in 1949. Riopelle was the first Canadian painter since James Wilson Morrice to achieve widespread international recognition.
Principal works · The hundred celebrated works
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German Born in Berlin Expressionism Wikipedia, 18 of 32 languages
Born in Berlin in 1877 into an upper-middle-class family, Münter navigated a world that presented significant obstacles for women pursuing artistic careers. Yet, supported by her family’s belief in her talent, she embarked on a journey of self-discovery and artistic innovation that would place her at the heart of some of the most groundbreaking movements in modern art. Münter's artistic education began with private tutoring, followed by formal studies at the Düsseldorf studio of Ernst Bosch and later at the Damenschule (Women’s School) in Munich.
Pupil of Wassily Kandinsky #1
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Korean Born in Ulchin Abstract painting
Following his participation in the São Paulo Biennial in 1963, Yoo experienced a period of artistic consolidation, withdrawing from group activities to focus on solo exhibitions held every other year for two decades. Exploring Yoo Youngkuk's masterpieces – such as “ Mountain ” or “ Work ”– at platforms like AllPaintingsStore.com offers a glimpse into the mind of a true pioneer, an artist who dared to break with tradition and forge a new path for Korean art.
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Polish Born in Leorda Expressionism Wikipedia, 11 of 32 languages
Weiss's distinctive style is characterized by intense emotion conveyed through muted color palettes and dynamic brushstrokes—a hallmark of Expressionism. His canvases capture psychological states with remarkable sensitivity, reflecting the anxieties and uncertainties of his time. Furthermore, he engaged with Symbolist artists such as Edvard Munch and Gustav Klimt, incorporating evocative imagery and psychological depth into his compositions.
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American Born in Buffalo Abstract Expressionism, Minimalism Wikipedia, 12 of 32 languages
He taught at numerous institutions—Brooklyn College, California School of Fine Arts, University of Wyoming, Yale University, and Hunter College—imparting his rigorous intellectual approach to aspiring artists.
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German Born in Schlēde German Expressionism
Blossfeldt's 'Urformen der Kunst' wasn’t simply a collection of photographs; it was a deliberate manifesto—a rejection of academic photography in favor of an approach that prioritized capturing the raw essence of botanical forms. This method created images where the textures and contours of the plants were revealed through latent impressions formed by ultraviolet radiation—a process that yielded strikingly surreal results.
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Austrian Born in Bzenec Vienna Secession Wikipedia, 13 of 32 languages
Born amidst the evocative landscapes of Bisenz, Bohemia, Maximilian Franz Viktor Zdenko Marie Kurzweil carried the romantic sensibilities of his youth into the heart of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. This internal struggle reached its devastating conclusion in 1916, when he ended his life alongside his student and lover, Helene Heger.
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French Born in Paris Expressionism
By the late 1950s, shifting artistic tides toward total abstraction and criticisms regarding his prolific output and lavish lifestyle led to a period of professional alienation. Nevertheless, Buffet’s dedication to his craft never wavered.
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German/Dutch Born in Krefeld Der Blaue Reiter Wikipedia, 13 of 32 languages
The Blaue Reiter’s emphasis on symbolism, spirituality, and the connection between art and nature profoundly impacted Campendonk's work, leading him to incorporate elements of folklore, mythology, and dream imagery into his compositions.
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American Born in Centerville Abstract Expressionism Wikipedia, 14 of 32 languages
Thompson introduced Tobey to the tenets of the Baháʼí Faith, a religion emphasizing the unity of all religions and humanity’s spiritual evolution. There, he encountered Teng Kuei, a Chinese painter who initiated him into the art of Eastern penmanship – a revelation that would become central to his artistic identity. His work was exhibited widely in Europe and the United States, earning him numerous awards and accolades.
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Scottish Expressionism; Surrealism
Born in 1942 amidst the salt-sprayed fishing traditions of Port Seton, near Edinburgh, John Bellany CBE, RA emerged as one of Scotland’s most profound and evocative visual storytellers. A pivotal moment in his development occurred during his travels to Europe, where the monumental war triptychs of Otto Dix in Dresden left an indelible mark on his psyche. His election to the Royal Academy in 1973 served as a formal recognition of his mastery and his role in shaping the trajectory of modern Scottish painting.
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Dutch Born in 's-Hertogenbosch Expressionism, Luminism Wikipedia, 8 of 32 languages
He produced a diverse collection of portraits, ranging from formal studio studies to informal snapshots of everyday life. Throughout his career, he remained committed to pushing the boundaries of Dutch painting, forging his own unique path amidst the shifting currents of modern art. While renowned for his landscapes, Sluijters was also a prolific portrait painter.
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German Born in Soest Expressionism Wikipedia, 11 of 32 languages
The trajectory of Morgner’s meteoric rise was violently interrupted by the onset of World War I.
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American Born in Kansas City Abstract Expressionism
In his works, such as the evocative Untitled (664) or the energetic Phenomena compass bearing, one can witness the breathtaking interplay of light and liquid. His technique involved: Layered Pigmentation: The meticulous application of thin, translucent washes that create a sense of infinite depth. In the intellectual and creative crucible of both New York and Paris, Jenkins navigated the dynamic currents of mid-century modernism, establishing a studio practice that would redefine the boundaries of the medium through his revolutionary "phenomena" technique.
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American Born in Birmingham Neo-Expressionism Wikipedia, 8 of 32 languages
His formative years were deeply etched by the 1965 Watts riots, a period of intense racial friction that instilled in him a lifelong commitment to exploring the complexities of the Black experience. From his tenure as a professor at the University of Illinois at Chicago to major retrospective exhibitions like Kerry James Marshall: Mastry at the Museum of Contemporary Art, Chicago, his influence permeates both the academy and the public consciousness.
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Belgian Born in Ghent Flemish Expressionism Wikipedia, 10 of 32 languages
During his time in the Netherlands, his work was influenced by the Bergen School and the works of Henri Le Fauconnier. His later years were marked by a peak in his unique mixture of Expressionism and Cubism.
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French Cubism
As a founding member of the Hetek painting group, he stood at the forefront of a generation that sought to redefine Hungarian and European art through a lens of radical modernity.
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German Born in Dusseldorf New Objectivity & Realism
His landscapes—particularly “ Early Morning in the Eifel Mountains ”—capture the serene beauty of the Rhineland region with remarkable precision and tonal subtlety.
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British Biblical scenes, female figures
Her use of light and shadow was particularly masterful, imbuing her figures with a sense of depth and psychological complexity. Beyond the technical aspects, Ascher’s process involved a deep engagement with the source material. She challenged the traditional role of religious art, moving beyond mere illustration to create works that explored the psychological and emotional dimensions of faith.
Principal works · The hundred celebrated works
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Belgian Born in Ghent Expressionism, Surrealism Wikipedia, 10 of 32 languages
In the 1930s, Van den Berghe’s work underwent a significant transformation, embracing a more overtly surrealist style. Frits Van den Berghe died in Ghent in 1939, leaving behind a rich and complex body of work that continues to captivate viewers with its haunting beauty and psychological depth. Initially, he benefited from the rigorous training provided by Jean Delvin at the Royal Academy, grounding him in classical techniques and compositional principles.
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Initially, Barlach worked in an Art Nouveau style, creating illustrations for the magazine Jugend and ceramic sculptures. A pivotal trip to Russia in 1906 profoundly influenced his artistic direction, exposing him to new perspectives and a more expressive aesthetic.
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American Born in Beirut ['Assemblage', 'Pop Art', 'Neo-Dada'] Wikipedia, 17 of 32 languages
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American Born in Chicago Wood engraving, Graphic novel
Lynd Ward's contribution to American art lies not just in his technical mastery—his exquisite wood engravings are renowned for their precision and expressive power—but also in his willingness to challenge conventional storytelling methods.
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Russian-Lithuanian Born in Novgorod Expressionism, Cityscapes
Born in Novgorod and carrying Lithuanian heritage, he carved out a unique artistic voice defined by a haunting exploration of urban decay, industrial landscapes, and the psychological toll of modernity. His work isn’t merely depictions of crumbling buildings; it's a visceral expression of isolation, anxiety, and the unsettling beauty found within the shadows of rapidly changing cities. Mstislav Dobuzhinsky’s work holds significant historical importance as a document of early 20th-century Russia.
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German Born in Krefeld Expressionism Wikipedia, 10 of 32 languages
Unlike many artists who sought grand urban centers, Nauen found his creative haven in the Rhineland, a region steeped in folklore, rural beauty, and a deep connection to the land – influences that would irrevocably shape his distinctive style. Nauen’s formal training began at the Kunstakademie Düsseldorf in 1898, where he honed his skills under the tutelage of established masters. Unlike some Expressionists who embraced bold abstraction or violent imagery, Nauen maintained a commitment to realism, albeit one filtered through the lens of personal experience.
Plates
Chronology
Notes and figures
| Germany | 24 |
|---|---|
| United States | 19 |
| Austria | 6 |
| Russia | 5 |
| Belgium | 4 |
| United States of America | 4 |
| Switzerland | 2 |
| Netherlands | 2 |
| 1840s | 1 |
|---|---|
| 1850s | 1 |
| 1860s | 10 |
| 1870s | 16 |
| 1880s | 22 |
| 1890s | 9 |
| 1900s | 13 |
| 1910s | 8 |
| 1920s | 10 |
| 1930s | 4 |
| 1940s | 2 |
| 1950s | 3 |
| 1960s | 1 |
Index of artists
Wassily KandinskyRussian · 1866–1944Edvard MunchNorwegian · 1863–1944Jean Michel BasquiatAmerican · 1960–1988Paul KleeGerman and Swiss · 1879–1940Jackson PollockAmerican · 1912–1956Amedeo ModiglianiItalian · 1884–1920Egon SchieleAustrian · 1890–1918Francis BaconIrish · 1909–1992Gerhard RichterGerman · born 1932Willem de KooningDutch-American · 1904–1997Jasper JohnsAmerican · born 1930Mark RothkoAmerican · 1903–1970Franz MarcGerman · 1880–1916Oskar KokoschkaAustrian, Czech, British · 1886–1980Ernst Ludwig KirchnerGerman · 1880–1938Arshile GorkyArmenian-American · 1904–1948Emil NoldeGerman-Danish · 1867–1956Otto DixGerman · 1891–1969James EnsorBelgian · 1860–1949Chaim SoutineFrench · 1893–1943Max BeckmannGerman · 1884–1950Friedensreich HundertwasserAustrian · 1928–2000Anselm KieferGerman · born 1945Lucian FreudBritish · 1922–2011Käthe KollwitzGerman · 1867–1945Georges RouaultFrench · 1871–1958Alexander CalderScottish-American · 1898–1976David Alfaro SiqueirosMexican · 1896–1974Helen FrankenthalerAmerican · 1928–2011Cy TwomblyAmerican · 1928–2011Lyonel FeiningerGerman-American · 1871–1956Barnett NewmanAmerican · 1905–1970František KupkaCzech · 1871–1957Paula Modersohn-BeckerGerman · 1876–1907Julian SchnabelAmerican · born 1951Georg BaselitzGerman · 1938–2026Lee KrasnerAmerican · 1908–1984Karl Schmidt-RottluffGerman · 1884–1976Hans HartungGerman-French · 1904–1989Frank AuerbachBritish · 1931–2024Robert MotherwellAmerican · 1915–1991Franz KlineAmerican · 1910–1962Peter DoigScottish · born 1959M.F. HusainIndian · 1915–2011August MackeGerman · 1887–1914Alexej von JawlenskyRussian · 1864–1941Philip GustonCanadian-American · 1913–1980Lovis CorinthGerman · 1858–1925Alice NeelAmerican · 1900–1984Zao Wou-Ki1920–2013Johannes IttenSwiss · 1888–1967Stanisław Ignacy WitkiewiczPolish · 1885–1939Erich HeckelGerman · 1883–1970Arnold SchoenbergAustrian-American · 1874–1951Marianne von WerefkinRussian-German-Swiss · 1860–1938Max PechsteinSpanish · 1881–1955Vilmos Aba-NovakHungarian · 1894–1941Nadežda PetrovićSerbian · 1873–1915Otto MuellerGerman · 1874–1930Constant PermekeBelgian · 1886–1952Jules Pascin1885–1930Christian RohlfsGerman · 1849–1938Wilhelm LehmbruckGerman · 1881–1919Ossip ZadkineRussian-French · 1888–1967Clyfford StillAmerican · 1904–1980Richard GerstlAustrian · 1883–1908Richard DiebenkornAmerican · 1922–1993John MarinAmerican · 1870–1953Charles Henry SimsBritish · 1873–1928Yannis TsarouchisGreek · 1910–1989Aaron SiskindAmerican · 1903–1991Hans HofmannGerman-American · 1880–1966Arthur SegalRomanian · 1875–1944Albin Egger-Lienz1868–1926Adolph GottliebAmerican · 1903–1974Jean-Paul RiopelleCanadian · 1923–2002Gabriele MünterGerman · 1877–1962Yoo YoungkukKorean · 1916–2002Wojciech WeissPolish · 1875–1950Ad ReinhardtAmerican · 1913–1967Karl BlossfeldtGerman · 1865–1932Max KurzweilAustrian · 1867–1916Bernard BuffetFrench · 1928–1999Heinrich CampendonkGerman/Dutch · 1889–1957Mark TobeyAmerican · 1890–1976John BellanyScottish · 1942–2013Jan SluijtersDutch · 1881–1957Wilhelm MorgnerGerman · 1891–1917Paul JenkinsAmerican · 1923–2012Kerry James MarshallAmerican · born 1955Gustave De SmetBelgian · 1877–1943Armand SchonbergerFrench · 1885–1974Werner PeinerGerman · 1897–1984Mary AscherBritish · 1900–1988Frits Van Den BergheBelgian · 1883–1939Ernst Barlach1870–1938Etel AdnanAmerican · 1925–2021Lynd WardAmerican · 1905–1985Mstislav DobuzhinskyRussian-Lithuanian · 1875–1957Heinrich NauenGerman · 1880–1940The visitor asks
Wassily Kandinsky (#1) is first in this ranking, followed by Edvard Munch (#2) and Jean Michel Basquiat (#3).
Wassily Kandinsky (#1), Edvard Munch (#2), Jean Michel Basquiat (#3), Paul Klee (#4) and Jackson Pollock (#5).
The highest-ranked painters born in the United States are Jean Michel Basquiat (#3), Jackson Pollock (#5), Jasper Johns (#11), Alexander Calder (#27) and Helen Frankenthaler (#29).
The highest-ranked painters born in Germany are Gerhard Richter (#9), Franz Marc (#13), Ernst Ludwig Kirchner (#15), Otto Dix (#18) and Max Beckmann (#21).
Germany: 24 of the 100 painters in this list were born there, then United States (19) and Austria (6).
The highest-ranked living painters in this list are Gerhard Richter (#9), Jasper Johns (#11), Anselm Kiefer (#23), Julian Schnabel (#35), Peter Doig (#43) and Kerry James Marshall (#90).
The earliest-born painter in this list is Christian Rohlfs (#62), born in 1849.
“His final years were spent in this French landscape, continuing to work with the layered impasto techniques that gave his canvases a physical, textured presence.” — from our biography of Wassily Kandinsky (#1).
Most painters in this list were born in the 1880s (22 of 100), between 1849 and 1960 overall.
Robert Motherwell (#41) taught Cy Twombly (#30); Franz Kline (#42) taught Cy Twombly (#30).
This list includes 10 women: Käthe Kollwitz (#25), Helen Frankenthaler (#29), Paula Modersohn-Becker (#34), Lee Krasner (#37), Alice Neel (#49), Marianne von Werefkin (#55), Nadežda Petrović (#58) and Gabriele Münter (#77).
Our catalogue holds 16,739 works by these painters.
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