Emil Nolde (1867–1956,) born Hans Emil Hansen, was a German-Danish painter and printmaker, among the first Expressionists and a member of Die Brücke, an influential modernist group. His work is known for bold colors, dramatic brushwork, and emotional intensity.
Born in Nolde, Germany, he trained as a woodcarver and illustrator before pursuing painting. After studying at Académie Julian in Paris (1898–1900,) he adopted the name Nolde, reflecting his birthplace.
Nolde’s paintings often depict vivid landscapes, religious themes, and floral compositions, influenced by Vincent van Gogh. Notable works include Lesende junge Frau (1906, Young Woman Reading,) Blumengarten (ohne Figur) (1908, Flower Garden Without Figure,) and Blumen und Wolken (1933, Flowers and Clouds.)
Despite early support for Nazi ideology, his art was labeled “degenerate” in 1937, leading to a ban. He continued painting in secrecy, producing “Unpainted Pictures,” a series of small watercolors.
More: Wikipedia • READ: Works by Emil Nolde
Clever people master life; the wise illuminate it and create fresh difficulties.
—Emil Nolde
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