Skip to main content

Expressionist Paintings

EXPRESSIONIST STYLE

While “expressionist” is used to describe any art that avoids naturalism and instead employs a bold use of flattened forms and intense brushwork, Expressionist art formally describes early-20th-century work from Europe that drew on Symbolism and confronted issues such as urbanization and capitalism. Expressionist artists experimented in paintings and prints with skewed perspectives, abstraction and unconventional, bright colors to portray how isolating and anxious the world felt rather than how it appeared. 

Between 1905 and 1920, Austrian and German artists, in particular, were inspired by Postimpressionists such as Paul Gauguin and Vincent van Gogh in their efforts to strive for a new authenticity in their work. In its geometric patterns and decorative details, Expressionist art was also marked by eclectic sources like German and Russian folk art as well as tribal art from Africa and Oceania, which the movement’s practitioners witnessed at museums and world’s fairs.

Groups of artists came together to share and promote the themes now associated with Expressionism, such as Die Brücke (The Bridge) in Dresden, which included Erich Heckel, Ernst Ludwig Kirchner and Karl Schmidt-Rottluff and investigated alienation and the dissolution of society in vivid color. In Munich, Der Blaue Reiter (The Blue Rider), a group led by Wassily Kandinsky and Franz Marc, instilled Expressionism with a search for spiritual truths. In his iconic painting The Scream, prolific Norwegian painter Edvard Munch conveyed emotional turmoil through his depiction of environmental elements, such as the threatening sky.

Expressionism shifted around the outbreak of World War I, with artists using more elements of the grotesque in reaction to the escalation of unrest and violence. Printmaking was especially popular, as it allowed artists to widely disseminate works that grappled with social and political issues amid this time of upheaval. Although the art movement ended with the rise of Nazi Germany, where Expressionist creators were labeled “degenerate,” the radical ideas of these artists would influence Neo-Expressionism that emerged in the late 1970s with painters like Jean-Michel Basquiat and Francesco Clemente.

​​Find a collection of authentic Expressionist paintings, sculptures, prints and more art on 1stDibs.

to
553
704
609
668
654
805
Overall Width
to
Overall Height
to
14
980
2,445
6
7
29
41
35
63
113
127
92
118
40,621
36,516
22,378
8,740
4,651
3,293
2,508
1,196
1,168
983
892
429
272
1,666
1,238
528
1,445
1,158
949
501
359
303
288
264
261
218
187
168
124
120
97
82
78
75
67
63
3,278
2,055
1,758
1,722
1,247
41
41
38
37
30
869
177
1,497
1,276
Style: Expressionist
Mediterranean Village of Mallorca oil on canvas painting
Mediterranean Village of Mallorca oil on canvas painting

Mediterranean Village of Mallorca oil on canvas painting

Located in Sitges, Barcelona

Artist: Bernat Sanjuan i Tarré (Barcelona, 1915 – Deià, Mallorca, 1979) Title: Mediterranean Village of Mallorca Medium: Oil on canvas Dimensions: 65 × 92 cm (25.6 × 36.2 in) Framed:...

Category

1950s Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Oil

View of the Lake, Oil on Cardboard, Landscape Painting, 26x36.5 cm
View of the Lake, Oil on Cardboard, Landscape Painting, 26x36.5 cm

View of the Lake, Oil on Cardboard, Landscape Painting, 26x36.5 cm

Located in Riga, LV

Janis Rikmanis (1901.5.IV – 1968.25.III) graduated Figurative painting studio of Latvia Art academy (1931). He took part in exhibitions since 1929. Self-exhibitions were made in Riga...

Category

1950s Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Oil, Cardboard

Horsewoman" is a free copy from K.Bryulov's painting
Horsewoman" is a free copy from K.Bryulov's painting

Horsewoman" is a free copy from K.Bryulov's painting

Located in Zofingen, AG

"Horsewoman" is a free copy from K.Bryulov's painting "landscape of the Volsky Lily. A beautiful and amazing painting is painted according to all the canons of painting. 8 layers of ...

Category

2010s Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Oil

Sun through flowers
Sun through flowers

Sun through flowers

Located in Oslo, NO

This vibrant artwork captures the warmth of a sunlit interior where tulips dominate the scene. Rich hues of red and purple tulips burst from a textured glass vase, their petals softl...

Category

2010s Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Paper, Oil

1940's French Signed Oil Expressionist Landscape Riverside Scene
1940's French Signed Oil Expressionist Landscape Riverside Scene

1940's French Signed Oil Expressionist Landscape Riverside Scene

Located in Cirencester, Gloucestershire

Riverside Scene By Alex Levrat, French 1941 signed & dated oil on board, framed Framed: 15 x 18 inches Board : 13 x 16 inches Provenance: private collection, France Condition: very g...

Category

Mid-20th Century Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Oil

Aimasiko - 21st Century, Contemporary, Figurative, Portrait, Africa, Women
Aimasiko - 21st Century, Contemporary, Figurative, Portrait, Africa, Women

Aimasiko - 21st Century, Contemporary, Figurative, Portrait, Africa, Women

Located in Ibadan, Oyo

Yoruba proverb says, "Adániwáyè ò gbagbé enikan; àimàsikò lóndààmú edá", meaning "The Creator does not forget anyone; ignorance of divine timing troubles humans". Difficult times may...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Oil, Acrylic

Tulips Blue
Tulips Blue

Tulips Blue

Located in Zofingen, AG

I poured vibrant energy into this piece, blending acrylic, oil pastel, and colored pencil to create bold, expressive tulips that burst with life. The fusion of expressionism, impress...

Category

2010s Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Oil Pastel, Acrylic, Archival Paper

Flowers n°2
Flowers n°2

Flowers n°2

Located in Genève, GE

Signed and dated "Fleurs Genève 1941 n°2", inscription on the verso. Dimensions with frame: 59 x 46 x 5 cm This expressive still life depicts a bouquet of flowers arranged in an orn...

Category

1940s Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Oil, Wood Panel

Night Lights, Original Painting
Night Lights, Original Painting

Night Lights, Original Painting

By Robert Hofherr

Located in San Francisco, CA

Artist Comments
Simplified shapes and colors form a fragmented image of a village and night sky. Accents of warm colors from the moon and houses balance the dominant blue and g...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Acrylic

Finding Solace - 21st Century, Contemporary, Figurative Abstraction, Floral
Finding Solace - 21st Century, Contemporary, Figurative Abstraction, Floral

Finding Solace - 21st Century, Contemporary, Figurative Abstraction, Floral

Located in Ibadan, Oyo

Shipping Procedure Ships in a well-protected tube from Nigeria This work is unique, not a print or other type of copy. Accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity. About Artist Ola...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Acrylic

Potted Flowers
Potted Flowers

Potted Flowers

By Charles Kvapil

Located in London, GB

'Potted Flowers', oil on canvas, by Charles Kvapil (1933). Potted red geraniums symbolise happiness, good health, good wishes, and friendship. They are ...

Category

1930s Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Oil

Still-life by Frank Chabry - Oil on cardboard
Still-life by Frank Chabry - Oil on cardboard

Still-life by Frank Chabry - Oil on cardboard

Located in Geneva, CH

Artwork sold with frame (46 x 40 cm) Frank Chabry (also spelled Franck Chabry) (1916–1979) was a Swiss painter and art educator born in Lausanne on April 25, 1916, and passed away i...

Category

Late 20th Century Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Oil

Julien Meunie Almond original acrylic painting
Julien Meunie Almond original acrylic painting

Julien Meunie Almond original acrylic painting

By Julen Meunie

Located in CORAL GABLES - MIAMI, FL

" ALMOND original acrylic painting. framed Julien was born in 1948 in Vichy, France. He studied art and theater in Clermont-Ferrand at the same time as finishing his degree in Fren...

Category

Late 20th Century Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Oil

Colourful French Expressionist Landscape, Promeneur au Pigeonnier
Colourful French Expressionist Landscape, Promeneur au Pigeonnier

Colourful French Expressionist Landscape, Promeneur au Pigeonnier

Located in Cotignac, FR

French landscape, Expressionist oil on board by Jean Arene. The painting is signed bottom left, titled dated and signed to the back and is presented in the original 'Arene' frame sup...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Oil

French Expressionism "A Vase of Flowers" Gen Paul (French, 1895-1975)
French Expressionism "A Vase of Flowers" Gen Paul (French, 1895-1975)

French Expressionism "A Vase of Flowers" Gen Paul (French, 1895-1975)

By Gen Paul

Located in SANTA FE, NM

"A Vase of Flowers" Eugene Paul aka Gen Paul (French, 1895-1975) Oil crayon on paper 20 1/2 x 14 (28 x 21 1/2 frame) inches "Gen Paul is undoubtedly the greatest representative, and...

Category

1960s Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Paper, Oil Crayon

Be Bold
Be Bold

Be Bold

Located in Ibadan, Oyo

"Be Bold" is a striking piece that demands attention from the moment one sets eyes on it. The central figure, a woman with flowing blue hair, exudes an air of confidence and resilience. The blue hue not only serves as an aesthetic choice but also carries deeper significance, representing the freedom to break societal norms and embrace personal identity without fear. The composition is masterfully crafted, with bold brushstrokes and intricate details that draw the viewer into the artwork. The woman's piercing gaze locks with the observer, inviting them to explore their own journey of self-discovery and empowerment. Each stroke of Theophilus's brush seems to radiate energy and passion, capturing the spirit of the subject and infusing the artwork with a powerful presence. "Be Bold" serves as a powerful symbol of embracing individuality and embracing one's true self. The woman with blue hair stands as a representation of those who dare to be different, challenging societal expectations and norms. The vibrant blue color symbolizes freedom, confidence, and the courage to break free from conformity. In a world that often pressures individuals to fit into predefined molds, Theophilus's artwork is a reminder of the beauty and strength found in embracing one's unique qualities. "Be Bold" calls on viewers to celebrate their differences, encouraging them to step out of their comfort zones and express their true selves without hesitation or fear of judgment. The power of "Be Bold" lies in its ability to evoke a strong emotional response in those who experience it. The artwork serves as a catalyst for introspection, urging viewers to reflect on their own lives and choices. The confident and defiant gaze of the woman with blue hair prompts individuals to question their own limitations and seek the courage to break free from them. By inspiring viewers to be bold, Theophilus encourages self-empowerment and personal growth. Through his art, he instills a sense of pride and confidence, reminding us that our uniqueness is a strength to be celebrated, not hidden away. The artwork's impact extends beyond the confines of the gallery walls, inspiring individuals to embrace their authentic selves and pursue their passions with unwavering determination. "Be Bold" by Adewuyi Theophilus...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Oil

Light and Stone in Harmony Sway, Oil Painting
Light and Stone in Harmony Sway, Oil Painting

Light and Stone in Harmony Sway, Oil Painting

By Crystal DiPietro

Located in San Francisco, CA

Artist Comments
Soft light hits two peaks, casting soft, blue shadows on the cliffs below. In the foreground, a meadow lights up with small, dancing trees. The composition and ...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Oil

Hoopoe bird
Hoopoe bird

Hoopoe bird

Located in Zofingen, AG

In painting this hoopoe, I poured my fascination for nature's intricate designs into every stroke of oil paint. With a blend of realism and expressionism, I sought to capture not jus...

Category

2010s Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Oil, Cardboard

Gravity of Light: Marine Chronicles
Gravity of Light: Marine Chronicles

Gravity of Light: Marine Chronicles

Located in Zofingen, AG

A cornerstone of the 'Gravity of Light: Marine Chronicles' collection, this 2012 masterpiece marks the origins of Elena Lukina’s signature philosophy: "The Turquoise Silence." Painte...

Category

2010s Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Oil

Fruit Market in Haiti oil on canvas painting
Fruit Market in Haiti oil on canvas painting

Fruit Market in Haiti oil on canvas painting

Located in Sitges, Barcelona

Title: Fruit Market in Haiti Artist: JM Gary Delly Medium: Oil on canvas Dimensions (unframed): 9.8 x 7.9 in Dimensions (framed): 15 x 13 in Period: Approx. 1990-1999 Origin: Haiti Condition: Good, with frame included Description of the Artwork This painting captures a lively Haitian market scene, embodying the essence of Haitian primitivist art with its vibrant colors and thick impasto brushstrokes. The scene depicts a bustling marketplace where vendors and buyers interact, surrounded by piles of tropical fruits arranged in baskets. The figures are dressed in bright, contrasting tones, enhancing the painting’s dynamic and energetic atmosphere. The artist’s expressive, thick strokes and saturated colors create a sense of movement and liveliness. The composition is carefully balanced, with figures arranged in different planes, providing depth and perspective in an intuitive manner. The lush vegetation in the background and the bright blue sky add further context to the scene, situating it in the Caribbean setting. Haitian art, influenced by its African and Caribbean heritage, is known for its naïve style and depictions of everyday life. JM Gary Delly follows this tradition, celebrating the vibrancy of Haitian culture in his work. Comparable Artists This artwork shares stylistic similarities with renowned Haitian artists, including: Wilson Bigaud (1931-2010): A master of Haitian art, famous for his detailed depictions of everyday life and folklore. André Normil (1934-2015): Known for his naïve style and colorful representations of Haitian life. Laurent Casimir...

Category

1990s Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Oil

Woman posing nude
Woman posing nude

Woman posing nude

By Henry Meylan

Located in Genève, GE

Work on canvas dimensions with frame : 101 x 86.5 x 3 cm This painting presents a seated nude woman, expressing a captivating presence. The rich, varied tones of the palette, from de...

Category

Mid-20th Century Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Oil

Star Gazing, Original Painting
Star Gazing, Original Painting

Star Gazing, Original Painting

By Diana Elena Chelaru

Located in San Francisco, CA

Artist Comments
A woman lies under a vibrant night sky, the stars and planets illuminating her form. Bold colors and energetic directional brushwork add a hypnotizing energy to the composition. This piece is artist Diana Elena Chelaru's personal interpretation of the vast space.


About the Artist
Artist Diana Elena Chelaru creates vibrant expressionist works that explore human emotion and the cosmos. “Art is a means of communication, a way to express my thoughts, hopes, and joys,” says Diana. She uses form, lines, and color to bring her imaginative compositions to life, with inspiration drawn from Byzantine mosaics and Gustav Klimt’s decorative patterns. Diana received her BFA in Painting from George Enescu Art University and an MA in Art History from Queens College. Diana’s creative process is fluid and intuitive, guided by her emotions in the moment, with music as a constant companion. Her studio, located in the basement of her home, is kept clean and organized. When she’s not creating, Diana enjoys spending quality time with her family.


Words that describe this painting: Universe, stars, sky, night, meditation, celestial, space, flow, movement, planets, reclining, expressionism, nature, people, acrylic painting, blue


Star Gazing...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Acrylic

Young Woman Fetching Water, Oil on Canvas, Signed, Circa 2000, Spain
Young Woman Fetching Water, Oil on Canvas, Signed, Circa 2000, Spain

Young Woman Fetching Water, Oil on Canvas, Signed, Circa 2000, Spain

Located in Sitges, Barcelona

Title: Young Woman Fetching Water Artist: Jesús Villar (1930–2015) Medium: Oil on canvas Dimensions: 39.4 x 20.1 in Estimated date: c. 2000 Signature: Signed lower left: "Villar...

Category

Early 2000s Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Oil

Mid Century Expressionist Landscape, Oil on Canvas. The Countryside
Mid Century Expressionist Landscape, Oil on Canvas. The Countryside

Mid Century Expressionist Landscape, Oil on Canvas. The Countryside

Located in Cotignac, FR

Mid Century oil on canvas landscape painting by Franco Hungarian artist Elemer Vagh Weinmann. The painting is signed bottom right and is presented in a custom gilt frame with a white...

Category

Mid-20th Century Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Oil

Abstract Figurative Expressionist painting
Abstract Figurative Expressionist painting

Abstract Figurative Expressionist painting

Located in Wilton Manors, FL

Amazing Figurative Expressionism painting with exceptional color and movement. Oil on canvas, ca. 1960s. Measures 40 x 52 inches. Unsigned and unattributed. Excellent condition.

Category

Mid-20th Century Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Oil

Expressionist paintings for sale on 1stDibs.

Find a wide variety of authentic Expressionist paintings available for sale on 1stDibs. Works in this style were very popular during the 21st Century and Contemporary, but contemporary artists have continued to produce works inspired by this movement. If you’re looking to add paintings created in this style to introduce contrast in an otherwise neutral space in your home, the works available on 1stDibs include elements of blue, orange, purple, green and other colors. Many Pop art paintings were created by popular artists on 1stDibs, including Iryna Kastsova, Maria Asuncion Raventos, Masri Hayssam, and Evelyne Ballestra. Frequently made by artists working with Paint, and Oil Paint and other materials, all of these pieces for sale are unique and have attracted attention over the years. Not every interior allows for large Expressionist paintings, so small editions measuring 1 inches across are also available.