Paul Klee ( * 18.12.1879 † 29.06.1940 )

Paul Klee in Tunis in 1914, photographed by Hodler

What Made Paul Klee an Icon of 20th Century Modern Art?

 

Paul Klee, born on December 18, 1879, and passing away on June 29, 1940, holds a prominent place in the pantheon of 20th-century modernist artists. Born into an artistic Swiss family—his mother a talented singer and his father a musician—Klee was destined to make a significant impact in the world of art.

Known for his artistic versatility, Paul Klee's paintings traverse various isms of art history, including Expressionism, Cubism, and Surrealism. He was closely affiliated with the avant-garde "Blue Rider" artistic group, which further influenced his approach to art.

A pivotal moment in Paul Klee's artistic journey occurred in 1914 when he traveled to Tunis with fellow artists August Macke and Louis Moilliet. Here, he encountered Ferdinand Hodler, and the trip profoundly transformed his use of color. Subsequently, Klee's works were dominated by warm tones and a new vibrancy.

In 1920, Klee and his close friend Wassily Kandinsky became influential teachers at the Bauhaus schools in Weimar and Dessau. He reached another career milestone in 1931, becoming a professor at the Düsseldorf Art Academy. However, the rise of the Nazi regime forced him to return to Bern, where he spent his remaining years battling a severe illness.

Paul Klee wasn't just a painter; he was a polymath who also explored the realms of music and poetry. His rich and multidisciplinary artistic portfolio makes Paul Klee paintings a fascinating subject of study, appealing to art enthusiasts and collectors alike.

Wall art prints and famous paintings by Paul Klee
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