Ernst Ludwig Kirchner's graphic work is an essential component of his artistic oeuvre and of outstanding importance for modern art.
Kirchner's passionate preoccupation with printmaking led him to produce more than 2000 graphic motifs in woodcuts, etchings and lithographs in almost 40 years of work. His woodcuts are characterized by a clear line and strong contrasts, while his etchings are distinguished by a very sensitive and delicate needlework. His lithographs impress with their spontaneity and directness, which conceal the enormous effort involved in the production process.
Ernst Ludwig Kirchner, Head Ludwig Schames, 1918, woodcut © Kirchner Museum Davos Photo: Stephan Bösch
Kirchner revolutionized and expanded the use of techniques, printed almost all of his prints himself in small editions and often achieved unique and novel effects. His expressive, direct and immediate power of expression as well as his innovative production methods have contributed to his prints being considered milestones in art history today. With its extensive collection of works on paper, the Kirchner Museum Davos is able to exhibit the history of graphic art in Ernst Ludwig Kirchner's oeuvre with the most outstanding pieces from its own holdings like hardly any other museum in the world.
The exhibition is complemented by short films that present the techniques and their application in detail, as well as a supporting program that gives the public the opportunity to try them out for themselves.
December 10, 2023 to April 28, 2024
