Egon Schiele

Painter and graphic artist Egon Schiele was one of the most provocative Viennese artists of the early 20th century. A time when one great historical era was slowly and almost unnoticed coming to an end. The times when, in culture and fine arts, perhaps the most new directions began to take root. For the first time, visitors to the galleries were exposed to the daring work of expressionists and cubists, and the first abstract works appear. And thanks to creators like Schiele, eroticism entered public space. The young Egon Schiele is initially fascinated by the Art Nouveau and the work of his compatriot Gustav Klimt, but soon finds his own means of expression in expressionism and bold acts. His main inspirations are beautiful and young women. And they are essential muses not only of his work, but also of his life. But only two have a fatal effect on him - his sister and the first muse Gerti and the young Wally, probably Schiele' s only true love, which he immortalized in his famous painting “Death and the Girl“. His provocative erotic work will soon provoke a response not only among artists and gallerists, but also among honorable citizens. He is even forced to end his stay in Český Krumlov due to his loose lifestyle. In the end, however, he is still arrested, faces charges of sexual abuse of a minor girl and the judge burns his drawing as a warning. Although Schiele' s radical paintings offended Viennese society, brave artists like Gustav Klimt felt his uniqueness. In his work, Egon Schiele was ready to go beyond the edge of his own pain, sacrificing love and, ultimately, life for his art. For art that inspires us to this day.