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.
$1,442
"Evening city over the sea bay. The triptych. An atmospheric seascape in blue."
Located in Zofingen, AG
Evening city over the sea bay. The triptych. An atmospheric seascape in blue. The central painting has a size of 40x40cm. The left part of the triptych has a size of 30x40cm. The r...
Canvas, Lacquer, Oil, Acrylic
$2,560Sale Price|20% Off
Abstract Expressionist Oil Painting, Green, Red, Blue, "No Title"
Located in Franklin, MA
Katherine Borkowski-Byrne’s ‘No Title” is an oil painting on canvas 30 x 40 x 1.5 inches with spontaneous brushwork with mostly blues with accents of green, violet, red and orange. T...
Canvas, Oil
Moonlight 60X50 oil
Located in Zofingen, AG
In crafting this piece, I channeled the serene yet profound energy of the nocturnal seascape. The interplay of moonlight sheathing the waves carries a tranquil aura, while the ethere...
Canvas, Oil
Against All Odds, I Stand
Located in Ibadan, Oyo
Gbelekale Azeez's "Against All Odds, I Stand" is a striking artwork that features a woman standing tall and proud in the face of adversity. The piece is a celebration of resilience, ...
Canvas, Acrylic
$425
Van Gogh Style
Located in San Francisco, CA
Powerful little expressionist painting. With the vibrant colors and heavy impost, though it reminds me in the style of van Gogh. It is an oil on wood and it is signed. BOBAK. There a...
Oil
Romance in Paris 55X40 oil on canvas
Located in Zofingen, AG
In this oil painting, I've captured the essence of love and beauty inspired by the enchanting city of Paris. The vivid, soft brushstrokes of the blooming roses in the foreground are ...
Canvas, Oil
RAVENTOS. original expressionist acrylic painting
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
Victim (When The Sky Seems So Blue)
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, Acrylic
Fantasy with Flowers 31
Located in Zofingen, AG
"Fantasy with Flowers" (series of 200+ pictures) paper 59x42cm 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
I’m Different 3
Located in Ibadan, Oyo
“In Africa, Yoruba land to be precise where I grew up the nourishing attitude of Omoluwabi, our facial looks is been used to define us as a person, a guy with ear piercing and dreadlocks on his head being looked at as a thug, frauds tars, and so on, Meanwhile, these guys are a cool and calm-hearted person Though there are guys like these that are truly counted in the act not all of them are like that Good and God fearing youth still exist” (Written by the Artist) Painting Ships in a well-protected tube from Nigeria This work is unique, not a print or other type of copy. Signed on the front side and accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity. - About the Artist Joy Eyitayo Alagbe...
Canvas, Charcoal, Acrylic
Fantasy with Flowers 32
Located in Zofingen, AG
"Fantasy with Flowers" (series of 200+ pictures) paper 59x42cm 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
$4,400Sale Price|20% Off
"The Polo Player" Pierre Bosco (Italy/France) 1909-1993) circa 1950s
By Pierre Bosco
Located in SANTA FE, NM
"The Polo Player" Pierre Bosco, (1909-1993) Oil n canvas Signed lower right 15 x 12 inches Pierre Bosco showed an interest in art at an early age. His commitment and dedication to ...
Canvas, Oil
Ripples
Located in Ibadan, Oyo
"Ripples" by Obiora Anamaleze is a mesmerizing and thought-provoking artwork that beckons viewers to delve into a world of profound symbolism and cont...
Canvas, Oil
Walk on the Sea
Located in Zofingen, AG
I've poured my soul into this painting, blending acrylic and oil to form a vibrant dance between realism and abstraction. It's an expression of my emotions, where bold strokes and mu...
Oil, Acrylic, Cardboard
Little bird Chumichka
Located in Zofingen, AG
This piece captures the delicate spirit of a little bird perched quietly, radiating calm and gentle energy. I poured my love for nature into each brushstroke, blending realism with e...
Canvas, Oil, Cardboard
'Port de Vendres', Côte Vermeille, France, California Post Impressionist, Esalen
Located in Santa Cruz, CA
Signed verso, 'Ant McNaught' (American, 1952-2026), dated 2020 and inscribed '(After Derain)'. This California Post-Impressionist and Abstract Expressionist artist studied at the Es...
Canvas, Oil
$2,100
Raventos SHEET MUSIC Violin original expressionist acrylic paintig
Located in CORAL GABLES - MIAMI, FL
Partituras original expressionist acrylic paintig. RAVENTÓS Mª Assumpció – (San Sadurní d’Anoia, Barcelona 1930). Raventos trained at the elite Sant Jordi School of Fine Arts in Bar...
Cotton Canvas, Acrylic
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
$21,042
'Deux filles – Two Girls' by Oscar Eishacker (1881 – 1961) French Painter
Located in Knokke, BE
Oscar Eishacker Avignon 1881 – 1961 Marseille French Painter 'Deux filles – Two Girls' Signature: signed lower left 'Eishacker', ± 1920 Medium: oil on canvas Dimensions: image si...
Canvas, Oil
Fast or slow? - Expressive Nature Painting
Located in Boston, MA
Fast or slow? 36.0 x no height information x 1.5, 7.0 lbs Acrylic and oil paint Hand signed by the artist Artist's Commentary: "From the series Time for Questions." About the Art...
Oil, Acrylic
$792Sale Price|20% Off
William Goliasch "Bretagne" - Oil on cardboard 17x27 cm
Located in Geneva, CH
William Goliasch (1922-1986) Geneva Artist Oil work on canvas with frame Total size with frame is 45x34 cm
Oil
$1,731
The call of the ancestors. Family painting, mother and daughter, green artwork
Located in Oslo, NO
“The Call of the Ancestors” is part of Alter Ego series, inspired by Carl Jung’s psychology. The oil painting shows a young woman and her mother in a rural landscape. The scene is q...
Canvas, Oil
Majorca original watercolor paper expressionist painting
Located in CORAL GABLES - MIAMI, FL
Majorca original watercolor paper expressionist painting.
Watercolor
Blooming pond 50X50 oil on canvas
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
Muddled 2
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
$1,800
"Yearning" (2024) by Leigh Ann Van Fossan, Original Acrylic Painting
Located in Denver, CO
Leigh Ann Van Fossan's "Yearning" is an original acrylic depicting an impressionistic landscape with a stormy blue sky. Van Fossan was born in Vail, Colorado, and began oil paintin...
Canvas, Acrylic
Oil Painting Titled: Bacall 36 x 36
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
Custom framed Christina Major was born in Concord, New Hampshire in 1982. She has lived all over the world including Hawaii, France, New York and more currently Florida. Christina...
Oil
"Red poppies and daisies in a vase" ( modern expressive floral painting)
Located in VÉNISSIEUX, FR
This modern colorful floral artwork "Red poppies and daisies in a vase " is full of vivid colors ( red, yellow, green, blue, purple) which are my tools of expression. I explore th...
Paper, Acrylic
Jot at Last
Located in Ibadan, Oyo
Joy at Last is an original painting by Gbelekale Azeez. Azeez created Joy at Last Acrylic on a 42W by 42H inches primed canvas. "Joy at Last" is a beautiful artwork that portrays a ...
Canvas, Acrylic
Sisters in Yellow 3
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. A sister is a gi...
Canvas, Acrylic
Monstera 6, Vibrant Abstract Expressionist Foliage Original Mixed Media Painting
Located in Los Angeles, CA
In the realm of vibrant expressions, Italian artist Giuseppe Beddru masterfully brings to life abstracted flora in a spectacular fusion of color and form. The canvas dances with an o...
Canvas, Mixed Media
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
Orange Blossom
Located in Ibadan, Oyo
"Orange Blossom" is a breathtaking composition that immediately captivates the viewer. The focal point of the artwork is the woman's portrait, skillfully crafted with luminous golden hair cascading around her. The intricate details and delicate brushstrokes accentuate the woman's features, capturing the essence of her persona and imbuing the artwork with a sense of intimacy. The choice of golden hair adds an enchanting element to the portrait. It serves as a symbolic representation of radiance, vitality, and the timeless beauty associated with femininity. The flowing locks of hair seem to dance and shimmer, creating an ethereal aura that captivates the viewer's imagination. "Orange Blossom" carries symbolic meaning that goes beyond its aesthetic appeal. The woman's portrait represents the embodiment of femininity, embracing both strength and vulnerability. Her confident gaze and serene expression reflect an inner beauty that transcends physical appearance, inviting viewers to reflect upon the depth and complexity of femininity. The golden hair symbolizes not only the external beauty associated with femininity but also the inherent power and resilience that lies within women. The artwork captures the essence of growth, abundance, and transformation—much like the blossoming of orange flowers. It serves as a reminder that femininity is multifaceted, encompassing grace, wisdom, and the ability to adapt and flourish in any circumstance. "Orange Blossom" leaves a lasting impact on viewers, evoking a sense of awe and admiration. The artwork's portrayal of the woman with golden hair invites contemplation and introspection, encouraging viewers to appreciate and celebrate the unique qualities and strengths that women bring to the world. Theophilus's meticulous technique and attention to detail create a visually stunning experience. The radiant golden hair seems to illuminate the canvas, drawing the viewer into a world of beauty and enchantment. The artwork inspires a deeper appreciation for femininity and serves as a reminder of the profound impact women have on society, culture, and the arts. "Orange Blossom" by Adewuyi Theophilus...
Canvas, Oil
$3,700
Monstera 7, Layered Colorful Original Expressionist Garden Landscape Painting
Located in Los Angeles, CA
In the realm of vibrant expressions, Italian artist Giuseppe Beddru masterfully brings to life abstracted flora in a spectacular fusion of color and form. The canvas dances with an o...
Canvas, Mixed Media
Blue Heaven, Oil Painting
Located in San Francisco, CA
Artist Comments
An expansive blue sky meets the ocean in a quiet, seamless horizon, with a single cloud drifting gently above. Below, the shoreline is alive with wispy grasse...
Oil
$4,500
1950's Expressionist Interior Oil Painting Still Life with Flowers and Trumpet
Located in Surfside, FL
Herbert Katzman 1923-2004 (American artist active in New york, Illinois and Italy) Oil Painting Dated 1946. Signed. Dimensions; Sight-16" x 20", Frame-23.5" x 27". Provenance: this...
Canvas, Oil
Euphoria 2
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 Authenticity (Issued by the Gallery) In "Euphoria," an evocative artwork by the skilled artist Kehinde Mayowa...
Canvas, Acrylic
Israeli Judaica Old Jewish Woman Sewing Expressionist Oil Painting
By Adolf Adler
Located in Surfside, FL
Adolf Adler 1917 - 1996 Adolf Adi Adler was born in Romania in 1917. Attended the Art College of Kluj Romania in 1950. (in Satu Mare, original home city of the Satmar Hasidic group). In 1963, Adler was chief among a group of well known artists who immigrated to Israel. He was awarded the Nordau prize in 1978. He works have been auctioned at Sloan's Auction House in Maryland and Karrenbauer Auction House in Germany and today are represented in the Yad Vashem Holocaust Museum in Jerusalem. In 1984, a retrospective of his work was held in Rishon Le Zion. He died in 1996. Awards and Prizes 1993 Mordecai Ish-Shalom Prize, Artists House, Jerusalem, for a Special Contribution to Art Artists in Israel for the Defense Tel Aviv Museum of Art, Helena Rubinstein Pavilion, Tel Aviv 1967 Artists: Aviva Uri...
Canvas, Oil
Sisters in Yellow 4 -21st Century, Contemporary, Figurative, Love African Fabric
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. "Often, in old a...
Canvas, Acrylic
Aláàárù Ajé" (Carrier of Wealth)
By Ayandare Adeniran Ayanmuyiwa
Located in Ibadan, Oyo
The artwork titled "Aláàárù Ajé" (Carrier of Wealth) features a lady with a head made of a Sekere, a traditional Yoruba percussion instrument made from dried gourds covered with beads. The lady is depicted wearing a blue dress with intricate details and patterns. Ayandare Adeniran, Ayanmuyiwa behind this intriguing piece of art has managed to capture the essence of the Yoruba culture, which is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and traditional beliefs. The use of the Sekere in the artwork is symbolic of the Yoruba people's deep-rooted love for music and the arts, which are considered an integral part of their daily lives. The lady in the artwork, with her head made of Sekere, is a representation of the Yoruba deity, Oshun, who is revered as the goddess of love, fertility, and prosperity. According to Yoruba mythology, Oshun is believed to be the owner of the Sekere and is often depicted carrying it around during festive celebrations and ceremonies. The blue dress worn by the lady in the artwork is also significant in Yoruba culture as it represents wealth, royalty, and nobility. The intricate details and patterns on the dress are a testament to the artist's attention to detail and skill, which are essential in Yoruba art. Overall, the artwork "Aláàárù Ajé" (Carrier of Wealth) is a beautiful representation of Yoruba culture, tradition, and mythology. The artist's use of the Sekere and the blue dress is a nod to the Yoruba people's love for music, art, and fashion, which are essential elements of their identity. The artwork is a reminder of the rich cultural heritage of the Yoruba people and the importance of preserving it for future generations. 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 Ayandare Adeniran, Ayanmuyiwa (born 1991) is an Artist who hails from Ogbomosho, Oyo state, Nigeria. At his early stage of life, his artistic talents sprang up and his parent helped in developing them by providing him with what they understood he needed by buying drawing books, crayons, and watercolors among others to help his creative skills. After his primary and secondary education, he received a Nigeria Certificate on Education (NCE) from a prestigious college; the Federal College of Education (SPECIAL), Oyo, where he studied Fine and Applied Arts. Musa Ibrahim was the first practicing Artist who helped Ayandare in his Artistic career which was during a compulsory Industrial Training program for students in the Fine Arts department. After College, yawning for knowledge and flare for artistic work dragged him to Arowolo Wasiu, a metal sculptor who trained him in sculpting metal. A thirst for one's zeal can only be quenched by following the path thus making him proceed to TOPE FATUNMBI...
Canvas, Acrylic
$568Sale Price|29% Off
"Mise en abîme", Painters on the beach - Oil on cardboard 50x70 cm
Located in Geneva, CH
Oil on cardboard with frame. Total size with frame 58x78 cm Signed and dated, illegible signature by the gallery
Oil
Remember Me
Located in Ibadan, Oyo
"Remember Me" is a poignant piece of art that evokes a powerful sense of nostalgia and remembrance. The piece centers around the face of a character, depic...
Charcoal, Pastel, Acrylic, Cardboard
Woody Blues, Oil Painting
Located in San Francisco, CA
Artist Comments
This dramatic coastal scene depicts the mood of summer rains. Wispy grasses stretch across the foreground, while warm tones soften patches of the shore. Above, ...
Oil
$6,057Sale Price|20% Off
Boats at sunset
Located in Coltishall, GB
Boats at sunset. Inspired by Rachaels life in Norfolk where she she enjoys dog walks along the North Norfolk coast and working in her studio close to the Norfolk Broads. Surrounded b...
Canvas, Wood, Acrylic
$3,281Sale Price|20% Off
Boats at Low Tide by Rachael Dalzell. Acrylic on canvas with tray frame
Located in Coltishall, GB
This piece is based on a view over boats on the marshes in early spring. Rachael’s paintings are large, colourful and expressive. Her free and lively use of paint through various t...
Canvas, Acrylic
BALL
Located in Zofingen, AG
In this vibrant fusion of acrylics and oils, I've captured the playful innocence of youth through bold, impressionistic strokes. Blending naive charm with pop art flavors, it's a whi...
Canvas, Oil, Acrylic
Coral tulips 2
Located in Zofingen, AG
In this piece, I poured my soul into the delicate blooms, capturing their tender energy with vibrant, soft hues of coral and pink. Using oil, I aimed to blend expressionism and reali...
Canvas, Oil, Cardboard
$5,050
Contemporary Abstract Expressionist Color-Field Landscape, Les Champs VI
Located in Cotignac, FR
A contemporary Abstract Expressionist Color-Field acrylic on canvas by French artist, Christian Manoury. Signed to the back of the canvas. Inspired by the wonderful countryside surr...
Paper, Acrylic
Resilient Beauty
By Bakare Abubakri-sideeq Babatunde
Located in Ibadan, Oyo
The painting is a stunning portrait of a black African woman with an intricate afro hairstyle that dominates the canvas. The use of vibrant oil colors on Ankara fabric gives the painting a rich texture and a sense of depth as if the woman is emerging from the fabric itself. The woman's gaze is direct and unwavering, conveying a sense of strength and resilience in the face of adversity. The Ankara fabric, a traditional African textile, adds a cultural dimension to the painting, highlighting the importance of heritage and identity. The combination of traditional fabric and contemporary art techniques makes the painting a unique and powerful piece that celebrates the beauty and strength of black African women. The painting invites the audience to appreciate the rich cultural heritage and diversity of Africa and to recognize the beauty and power of African women. 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 Bakare Babatunde...
Fabric, Canvas, Oil
A Chapter of Tranquility
Located in Ibadan, Oyo
"A Chapter of Tranquility" by Desmond Akindoju invites viewers into a serene tableau that captures the essence of peaceful coexistence. In this deligh...
Canvas, Acrylic
Bird in the forest
Located in Zofingen, AG
In this painting, I've captured the serene vibrancy of a yellow bird perched delicately amidst a hazy forest. The oil strokes blend realism with impressionism, creating a soft yet pr...
Canvas, Oil, Cardboard
$1,850
Beacon of Light -21st Century, Contemporary, Figurative Portrait, Landscape
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
$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
$2,950
Post Soviet Avant Garde Judaica Rabbi Playing Violin (the Klezmer Fiddler)
Located in Surfside, FL
Genre: Contemporary Subject: People Medium: Oil Surface: Canvas Dimensions: 24" x 18" Yuri Yefimovitch Brusovany was born on November, 15th 1949 in Leningrad (St. Petersburg) Russi...
Canvas, Oil
$696Sale Price|78% Off
Nude with a yellow medallion by William GOLIASCH - Oil on canvas 46x81 cm
Located in Geneva, CH
Work on canvas Gilded wood frame 85 x 50 x 2 cm
Oil
Saturday evening in November
Located in Zofingen, AG
"In this vivid oil canvas, I've captured the fleeting vibrancy of twilight through a blend of impressionism and expressionism, with a touch of realism heartily mixed in. The bold, em...
Canvas, Linen, Oil
Peace and Tranquility 1
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
$2,450
Black Beauty - 21st Century, Contemporary, Figurative Portrait, Acrylic, 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 Born in 1993 in...
Canvas, Acrylic
Saxophone
Located in Zofingen, AG
In this painting, I sought to blend the wild expressiveness of expressionism with the textural detail of impressionism, infused with a dash of pop art's boldness. The juxtaposition o...
Canvas, Acrylic
$10,569
St. Tropez - original abstract figurative oil painting - contemporary artwork
Located in London, Chelsea
We offer complimentary worldwide shipping and cover all tariffs and import taxes for this artwork. This exceptional artwork is currently on display and available for sale at Signet C...
Canvas, Oil