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.
$2,592Sale Price|20% Off
Mid Century French Expressionist Portrait Man in Crown Framed Oil Painting
Located in Cirencester, Gloucestershire
Title Mid Century French Expressionist Portrait Man in Crown Framed Oil Painting Key Details Artist: French School, mid 20th century Title: Expressionist Portrait of a Man Medium: Oi...
Oil
$2,200
Influence
By Aba Linus
Located in Ibadan, Oyo
The artwork titled "Influence" depicts a lady who appears to be lost in thought. She is portrayed with a blue and yellow color around her neck, which stands out against the grey background. The artwork is captivating, and it seems to tell a story of its own. The lady's posture suggests that she is deep in thought, perhaps reflecting on something significant. The blue and yellow colors around her neck add to the intrigue, leaving the viewer to wonder about their meaning. The colors are bold and bright, almost as if they are trying to break through the grey background. The title of the artwork, "Influence," adds another layer to the piece's meaning. It could be interpreted as the lady being influenced by something or someone, or perhaps she is the one who exerts influence on others. Either way, the title makes the artwork more thought-provoking and leaves the viewer with questions. The use of color in the artwork is striking. The blue and yellow around the lady's neck create a sense of vibrancy and life. The grey background, while muted, provides a subtle contrast that emphasizes the colors around her neck. The color choices are deliberate, each color has its own symbolic meaning. Blue is often associated with calmness, trust, and communication, while yellow is associated with optimism, happiness, and energy. The overall composition of the artwork is simple yet powerful. The lady is the focal point of the piece, and her posture and expression convey a sense of introspection. The blue and yellow colors around her neck draw the viewer's attention, and the grey background provides a sense of stillness and calmness. The artwork is open to interpretation, and the viewer may interpret it in different ways. Some may see it as a representation of someone deep in thought, while others may see it as a symbol of inner strength and influence. Whatever the interpretation, the artwork is visually striking and thought-provoking. In conclusion, "Influence" is a beautiful and thought-provoking artwork that portrays a lady lost in thought with blue and yellow colors around her neck on a grey background. The artwork's title and use of color add to its complexity, leaving the viewer with questions and interpretations. It is a testament to the power of art and its ability to evoke emotions and stimulate the mind. 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 (Issued by the Gallery) About Artist Aba Linus...
Canvas, Acrylic
Bouquet of Roses Original impasto oil painting Large abstract Still-life
By Elena Lukina
Located in Zofingen, AG
This original oil painting features a stylish still life of luxurious roses in a modern design. The vintage bouquet is rendered in soothing colors, creating a serene and nature-inspi...
Canvas, Oil
$3,850
She's Always Behind My Back -21st Century, Contemporary, Portrait, Love, Family
Located in Ibadan, Oyo
The painting is about the human relationship between brothers and sisters, spiritually, emotionally, and physically. How they fought, stood, and supported each other with love, shari...
Canvas, Oil, Acrylic
Mountain river Landscape Oil Painting on Italian canvas.
By Elena Lukina
Located in Zofingen, AG
This original oil painting captures a stunning landscape where the mountain's serene strength embraces the river's lively current. The artist masterfully blends expressionism with im...
Canvas, Oil
Montull Patio Terrace Garden Flowers oil canvas expressionist painting
Located in CORAL GABLES - MIAMI, FL
Patio. Original oil canvas expressionist painting
Oil
Tequila Gist 2 -21st Century, Contemporary, Expressionist, Modern, Mental Health
Located in Ibadan, Oyo
Shipping Procedure Ships in a well-protected tube This work is unique, not a print or other type of copy. Accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity (Issued by the Gallery) About ...
Paper, Charcoal, Acrylic
In My Dream - 21st Century, Contemporary, Expressionist, Modern, Mental Health
Located in Ibadan, Oyo
Shipping Procedure Ships in a well-protected tube This work is unique, not a print or other type of copy. Accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity (Issued by the Gallery) About ...
Paper, Charcoal, Acrylic
I Am Becoming - 21st Century, Contemporary, Expressionist, Modern, Mental Health
Located in Ibadan, Oyo
Shipping Procedure Ships in a well-protected tube This work is unique, not a print or other type of copy. Accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity (Issued by the Gallery) About ...
Paper, Charcoal, Acrylic
War and Peace, Mid-Century Surrealist Oil on Board, Signed, 1954
Located in Cotignac, FR
Mid-century Surrealist oil on board depicting War and Peace by Belgian Artist, Willy Smitz. Signed and dated bottom right with his recognisable triangular motif ( initialed WS ), in ...
Oil, Board
Lady In White 1 - 21st Century Contemporary, Figurative, Portrait, Women, Modern
Located in Ibadan, Oyo
She holds on to her integrity and purity. Lady in white captures a desire to be hidden, but her presence is revealed through her unquenched innermost beauty. Lady in white captures h...
Canvas, Acrylic
Untitled
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 (Issued by the Gal...
Canvas, Oil, Acrylic
Under the sun 50X70
By Elena Lukina
Located in Zofingen, AG
This piece is a vibrant celebration of nature's beauty and light's transformative power. Layered with oil, each brushstroke contributes to the vivid visual symphony. The sun, breakin...
Canvas, Oil
Raventos Cadaques Blue original expressionist acrylic painting
Located in CORAL GABLES - MIAMI, FL
Cadaques original expressionist acrylic painting RAVENTÓS Mª Assumpció – (San Sadurní d’Anoia, Barcelona 1930). Raventos trained at the elite Sant Jordi School of Fine Arts in Barc...
Canvas, Acrylic
Flowers
Located in Genève, GE
Work on wood Salmon wood frame Dimensions with frame : 56 x 41 x 1.7 cm This work of art, dominated by swirls of vibrant, bold colors, embodies a feeling...
Oil
We've Got The Phunk 3 -21st Century, Contemporary, Figurative, Neo-Expressionism
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 Oso...
Canvas, Acrylic, Polymer
Aux Confins du Dire, Expressionist Oil Painting on Canvas
Located in Miami, FL
Evelyne Ballestra's work with signs, symbols and esoteric spirituality reflects her passion for the ancient past and represents a symbolic return to the ground from which we emerged....
Canvas, Oil
$16,500
Sunflowers
By Elena Lukina
Located in Zofingen, AG
"In my creation, I pour my soul into the vibrant dance of sunflowers under an evocative sky. Each stroke is a symphony of colors, blending impressionistic warmth with a touch of real...
Canvas, Linen, Oil
Autumn song Medium Original impasto landscape oil painting on canvas
By Elena Lukina
Located in Zofingen, AG
"Autumn Song" captures the serene beauty of the season's picturesque colors. The artist's impressionistic style brings to life a landscape where trees are adorned in vibrant hues. Fr...
Canvas, Oil
$453
Funny fashionable girls Original impasto Miniature oil painting for living room
By Elena Lukina
Located in Zofingen, AG
I poured my emotions into these three figures, blending expressionism with a whimsical surreal touch. The oil paint is applied with an impasto technique, adding texture to the canvas...
Canvas, Oil, Cardboard
Sunflowers field 3D (18X24)
By Elena Lukina
Located in Zofingen, AG
In this painting, I sought to capture the vibrant essence of life, channeling my emotions into each stroke. The bold sunflowers stand as symbols of joy and exuberance, their bright f...
Canvas, Oil
$270Sale Price|20% Off
20th Paris School Collage Cutout Artwork Wonderful Interior Design Options
Located in Cirencester, Gloucestershire
"Collage" by Bernard Herzog (French, b.1935). signed and stamped verso with catalogue number. photo collage cut outs on paper, unframed. Overall paper: 25.5 x 20 inches Highly uniq...
Acrylic
Water Wonder Land, Oil Painting
Located in San Francisco, CA
Artist Comments
Gentle waves roll toward a distant shore, echoing the wispy clouds above. Blades of grass in the dark foreground create contrast against the bright sky and wate...
Oil
Blooming pond 50X50 oil on canvas
By Elena Lukina
Located in Zofingen, AG
In this vibrant oil painting, I've poured my zest for nature and renewal. Brushstrokes blossom across the canvas, capturing the essence of a serene pond, where time seems suspended. ...
Canvas, Oil
Irises on Gold
Located in Zofingen, AG
In this painting, I merged the vibrancy of irises with a radiant gold background, capturing a blend of Impressionism and Realism. Using acrylics and oils, I wanted to evoke a sense o...
Canvas, Oil, Acrylic
Cornflower
Located in Coltishall, GB
Cornflower - bursts with life. Rachael employs dynamic brushstrokes, creating a sense of movement, suggesting a lively garden environment. Dappled spots of light lend a sense of dep...
Canvas, Wood, Acrylic
Men's Talk - 21st Century, Contemporary, Figurative Impasto, Pop Culture, Men
Located in Ibadan, Oyo
Shipping Procedure Ships in a well-protected tube This work is unique, not a print or other type of copy. Accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity (Issued by the Gallery) About ...
Canvas, Acrylic
Woman - 21st Century Contemporary, Figurative Portrait, African Woman on Red Hat
By Ayandare Adeniran Ayanmuyiwa
Located in Ibadan, Oyo
Shipping Procedure FREE Shipping Worldwide 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 Authent...
Canvas, Acrylic
Scilla in the morning park Original impasto Miniature oil painting landscape
By Elena Lukina
Located in Zofingen, AG
I poured my heart into capturing the delicate dance of morning light filtering through the trees, awakening the blue blooms below. This original oil painting embraces both vibrant ex...
Canvas, Oil, Cardboard
Sunflowers – Oil Painting of Sunflowers (100x80 cm)
Located in Zofingen, AG
Oil Painting of Sunflowers (100x80 cm) Bring warmth and joy into your space with Sun-Kissed Harmony Sunflowers, a captivating oil painting that radiates sunshine and positive energ...
Oil
$4,300
"Slanted Light, Rifle Falls, CO" - Expressionist Landscape, Oil Painting
Located in Denver, CO
"Slanted Light, Rifle Falls, CO" is a beautiful original oil painting by American artist Joellyn Duesberry, depicting an expressionist abstraction of a rolling waterfall in Colorado....
Linen, Oil
In Line
Located in San Francisco, CA
This artwork "In Line" 1974 in a oil painting on canvas by Irish artist Rita Lipton, b.1916. It is signed and dated at the lower left corner by the artist. The canvas size is 24 x 12...
Oil
Lion
By Julia Ruf
Located in Zofingen, AG
"Lion" depicts the majestic presence and serene strength of the lion, a symbol of power and dignity. An expressive palette and textural brushstrokes...
Canvas, Oil
21st Century Framed Expressionist Acrylic Painting on Canvas
Located in CORAL GABLES - MIAMI, FL
original expressionist acrylic painting RAVENTÓS Mª Assumpció – (San Sadurní d’Anoia, Barcelona 1930). Raventos trained at the elite Sant Jordi School of Fine Arts in Barcelona. R...
Canvas, Mixed Media, Acrylic
Dancing Shadows -21st Century, Contemporary, Figurative Portrait, Fashion, Women
Located in Ibadan, Oyo
Shipping Procedure Ships in a well-protected tube. This work is unique, not a print or other type of copy. Accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity. About Artist Elie HATUNGIMAN...
Canvas, Acrylic
Forged in Light -21st Century, Contemporary, Figurative Portrait, Fashion, Women
Located in Ibadan, Oyo
Shipping Procedure Ships in a well-protected tube. This work is unique, not a print or other type of copy. Accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity. About Artist Elie HATUNGIMAN...
Canvas, Acrylic
Sail
Located in Zofingen, AG
In this painting, I aimed to capture the dynamic interplay of light on water, using a blend of acrylic and oil to create texture and depth. I employed expressionism to convey the emo...
Oil Pastel, Acrylic, Canvas
$2,000
Rebecca - 21st Century, Contemporary, Figurative Portrait, Floral, Modern, Women
By Kum Cletus
Located in Ibadan, Oyo
Shipping Procedure Ships in a well-protected tube This work is unique, not a print or other type of copy. Accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity. About Artist Born in 1993 in...
Canvas, Acrylic
Field poppies 60X70 oil on canvas
By Elena Lukina
Located in Zofingen, AG
In this oil painting, I've captured the wild vibrancy of nature and the ephemeral beauty of blooming flowers. Each stroke conveys raw emotion and the dynamic interplay of color and t...
Canvas, Oil
$1,380
Sea of Blues Diptych, Abstract Blue & White Fish Patterns, Mediterranean Style
Located in Barcelona, ES
This series by Enric Servera explores the relationship of humans to salt and seawater. The intention of these works is to submerge us into the sea, a salty treasure that surrounds us and reminds us of its natural beauty and the importance of its preservation. Details: Title: Sea of Blue N28 & 29 Medium: Mixed Media on Paper Size: 63 x 180 cm (each panel measures 63x90 cm); 24.8 x 70.8 inches (24.8 x 36 inches). Year: 2024 * Frame is for illustrative purposes only. Artwork shipped carefully rolled and packaged in a tube. * Certificate of Authenticity provided. Enric Servera (Ciutadella de Menorca, 1970) lives and works between Barcelona and Menorca, Spain. His works explores the colors and forms of the ocean, inspired by the fauna and flora of the Mediterranean Sea. His work has shown in galleries across Spain, and is part of several public and private collections. Words that may describe this series of artworks are: Mediterranean-inspired art, abstract sea paintings...
Watercolor
Bird on the willow for the Annunciation
By Elena Lukina
Located in Zofingen, AG
With vibrant oil strokes, I captured the delicate grace of a bird perched on a blooming willow branch, blending realism with expressive emotion. This painting radiates a serene yet h...
Canvas, Oil, Cardboard
Tulips 5
Located in Zofingen, AG
In this vivid expanse of warmth and vitality, I’ve unleashed my passion through oil pastel and colored pencil, embracing expressionism, impressionism, and pop art to provoke emotion....
Oil Pastel, Acrylic, Satin Paper
$1,250
Afro Crown 1 - 21st Century, Expressionist , Figurative Portrait, Human Hair
Located in Ibadan, Oyo
Shipping Procedure FREE Shipping Worldwide 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 Authent...
Canvas, Acrylic
Black Melanin
Located in Ibadan, Oyo
Being black is our heritage, what we have inherited from the past to value and enjoy in the present, and to preserve and pass on to future generations. Shipping Procedure Ships in a...
Canvas, Acrylic
Woman With Air Guitar and Musicians - Figurative Abstract in Oil on Canvas
Located in Soquel, CA
Modernist abstract figurative oil painting of a woman with musicians by San Francisco artist Michael William Eggleston (American, 20th century). Signed with monogram "MWE" and date...
Canvas, Oil
She Deserves Her Flowers 2 - 21st Century Contemporary, Figurative, Modern Women
Located in Ibadan, Oyo
She once loved and lost— left holding wilted promises, growing strength in silence. But still, she stood. Time healed what hurt tried to ruin. And when love came again, It came gent...
Canvas, Acrylic
$197
Impressionist abstract oil floral bouquet painting on cardboard "Lovely day"
Located in VÉNISSIEUX, FR
This artwork makes part of my series dedicated to the scenes of a summer period. This floral painting called "Lovely day" is done in an expressive impressionist style. Floral art...
Oil, Cardboard
Colourful Expressionist Oil on Canvas Market Scene, Mid-20th Century
Located in Cotignac, FR
Colourful Expressionist oil on canvas view of a market scene by A Monis. The painting is signed and dated bottom right and presented in a magnificent custom gilt wood frame. Provena...
Canvas, Oil
Liberation -21st Century, Contemporary, Figurative Portrait, Modern Women, Plant
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 (Issued by the Gal...
Canvas, Oil, Acrylic
"Banksy Nostradamus"
Located in Edinburgh, GB
A painting as a prophetic thought. A philosophical perspective on the sum of actions, the essence of humanity, and the future of the entire race. My images in my paintings come tr...
Oil
$486Sale Price|20% Off
Colourful Abstract, French Expressionist Original Oil Painting
By Akos Biro
Located in Cirencester, Gloucestershire
AKOS BIRO (HUNGARIAN 1911-2002) watercolour/ gouache on card size: 7.5 x 11 inches Beautifully colourful, original painting by the very popular and highly regarded Hungarian/ French...
Acrylic
$792Sale Price|20% Off
The harlequin and the rooster - Oil on wood 35x49 cm
Located in Geneva, CH
Work on wood New wooden frame with golden patina 58,5 x 45 x 3,5 cm Illegible signature
Oil
$415Sale Price|20% Off
Jacques Pinon, French Expressionist Landscape Oil Painting
Located in Cirencester, Gloucestershire
Artist/ School/ Date: Jacques Pinon, French School, late 20th century, signed Title: Expressionist landscape composition Medium & Size: oil painting on board: 7.75 x 10.75 inches, ...
Acrylic
Large Scale Abstracted Still Life with Fish, in the Style Of Henri Matisse
By D.S. Silver
Located in Soquel, CA
Large Scale Abstracted Still Life with Fish, in the Style Of Henri Matisse Bright, ocean-like, tropical colors in this abstract with fish in the style of Henri Matisse by D.S. Silve...
Canvas, Acrylic, Stretcher Bars
Fantasy with Flowers 12
Located in Zofingen, AG
"Fantasy with Flowers" (series of 200+ pictures) paper 54x40cm On the paper acrylic, oil pastel, felt-tip pen, ink, gold leaf, pencils, silver,mixed media. Flowers are a smile of ...
Oil Pastel, Acrylic, Archival Paper
Winter walking, Cotswolds, Original painting, Landscape, Nature, Tree
Located in Deddington, GB
A 40x30cm oil painting painted en plein air on a winters day in the Cotswolds displayed in a white frame. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Oil Paint on Board 40 H x 50 W x 3 D cm (15.75 x 19...
Canvas, Oil
Harbor
Located in Zofingen, AG
In this painting, I've captured the serene yet profound voyage of a ship sailing into a golden sunset. Using a blend of acrylic and oil, I explore the dynamics between light and shad...
Canvas, Oil, Acrylic
Funny fashionistas in blue and red Original impasto Miniature oil painting
By Elena Lukina
Located in Zofingen, AG
This original oil painting captures the joyful essence of two fashionable girls. The artist's expressive strokes and vivid colors bring out their unique charm. Their playful poses an...
Canvas, Oil, Cardboard
Parade Large Oil Painting
By Jürgen Görg
Located in Lake Worth Beach, FL
"Parade" Oil, graphite on linen canvas, canvas 46x39 with frame 63x55. Jurgen Gorg was born in 1951 in Dernbach Germany. His formative years were spent in Koblentz, before moving ...
Linen, Oil, Graphite
Sardines UNDERWATER PAINTING was created underwater at the depth of 7.1m
Located in Zofingen, AG
This mesmerizing piece, "Sardines", was painted entirely underwater at a depth of 7.1 meters by artist and professional diver Olga Nikitina. Executed in her signature underwater impr...
Cotton Canvas, Oil