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.
$9,500
"Horse and Woman" by M. Petersen - Expressionist Figurative in Light and Shadow
Located in Carmel, CA
Maura Petersen (American, born 1956) "Horse and Woman" 2024 Acrylic Paint, Canvas, Stretcher Bars The artist signed the back of the painting. In "Horse and Woman", Maura Petersen ca...
Canvas, Acrylic, Stretcher Bars
$1,840Sale Price|20% Off
Serenity Acrylic Painting of Lion and Rose, 21st Century Expressionism
By Bright Toh
Located in Ibadan, Oyo
Serenity is an original painting by Bright Toh. Bright created Serenity Acrylic on a 27.5W by 35.4H inches primed canvas. The artwork "Serenity" is a bright and colorful depiction of a lion head and rose flower, created entirely by a human hand. The combination of these two natural elements results in a stunning and harmonious image that exudes a sense of calm and tranquility. The lion head is the central focus of the artwork, rendered in vibrant hues of orange and yellow that evoke a sense of warmth and vitality. The lion's mane, which surrounds its powerful features, is depicted in a range of shades, from soft pastel pinks and purples to fiery reds and oranges. The overall effect is one of movement and fluidity as if the lion's mane is a living thing in and of itself. Intertwined with the lion's mane is a delicate rose flower, rendered in shades of pink and red that complement the warm tones of the lion's fur. The rose seems to emerge from the lion's mane as if it is a natural extension of the animal's power and beauty. The combination of these two elements creates a powerful visual metaphor, suggesting that beauty and strength can coexist in perfect harmony. Despite the boldness of its colors and imagery, "Serenity" also conveys a sense of calm and tranquility. The lion's expression is serene, and the rose is depicted in a way that suggests a sense of peace and stillness. The artwork invites the viewer to slow down and take a moment to appreciate the beauty of the natural world, and to find solace in its quiet strength. Overall, "Serenity" is a powerful and evocative work of art that combines elements of nature in a way that is both visually stunning and emotionally resonant. Its vibrant colors and bold imagery capture the viewer's attention, while its underlying sense of peace and harmony invites reflection and contemplation. It is a testament to the beauty and power of the natural world and a reminder of the importance of finding serenity in our busy and often chaotic lives. Bright Toh artworks portray the exquisite synergy that exists between the evolving African man, wildlife, and their common environment, through the possession of totems as a liaison to his ancestries, which is a core aspect of his identity and cultural heritage. 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 Born on the 6th of august 1994 in Buea, Bright Toh holds a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering Electrical and Electronics Engineering from the University of Buea. Notwithstanding his Engineering academic background, Toh is a self-taught visual artist. Bright Toh is a visual artist with artistry portraying the exquisite synergy that exists between the evolving African man, wildlife, and their common environment, through the possession of totems as a liaison to his ancestries, which is a core aspect of his identity and cultural heritage. He is a 2022 ‘Last Picture Show’ Lagos Edition (Collective exhibition) Participant. He also won the UNHCR global Youth With Refugee Art...
Canvas, Acrylic
Port de Centuri (Cap Corse) - Óleo sobre tabla - Firmado y enmarcado
Located in Sant Celoni, ES
La obra va firmada en la parte inferior, fechada del año 1980 y titulada Medidas de la obra: 38 cm x 60 cm. Medidas del marco: 51 cm x 73 cm. El estado de conservación de la obra ...
Oil
$3,800Sale Price|20% Off
Believe 2 Mixed Media Painting on Canvas, Expressionist, 21st Century
Located in Ibadan, Oyo
"Believe" is an original painting created by Eyitayo Alagbe. Eyitayo created "Beleive" with Mixed Media on a Primed canvas of 36W by 36H Inches Believe is a masterpiece that deserves to be celebrated. It is a powerful artwork that embodies the spirit of hope and faith that we so desperately need in these trying times. At its core, Believe is a symbol of optimism and perseverance. The artwork features a stunningly intricate image of a young boy, set against a backdrop of calming blue tones, the boy stands tall and proud, representing the resilience and strength that we all possess within us. The beauty of this artwork lies not only in its design but in its message. Believe is a reminder that we should never give up on our dreams, no matter how impossible they may seem. It encourages us to trust ourselves and to have faith in the path that we have chosen. It is not just an artist's interpretation of life, it is a positive force that inspires us to look at the world with a new perspective. Believe conveys that life has an amazing power to heal our system and rejuvenate our spirits. In today's world, where negativity and despair seem to be taking over, Believe is a beacon of hope. Its message is simple yet profound: we are capable of overcoming any obstacle if we believe in ourselves and never give up. The fact that Believe has managed to touch so many lives is a testament to its worth. It is not just a piece of art, but a timeless masterpiece that has the potential to inspire people for generations to come. In describing the painting "Believe", In Eyitayo Alagbe's words: "And above all, watch with glittering eyes the whole world around you because the greatest secrets are always hidden in the most unlikely places. Those who don't believe in magic will never find it. Believe in your heart that you're meant to live a life full of passion, purpose, magic, and miracles". Your belief and working towards what you believe in can make so much difference between the life you are living and the life you desire. In conclusion, Believe is a true masterpiece that is both beautiful and meaningful. It's not for mere decoration, it's a source of inspiration for life. Its message is a reminder to us all that we have the strength within...
Canvas, Charcoal, Acrylic
$3,520Sale Price|20% Off
Flowers of Paradise: Expressionist Charcoal & Acrylic Painting, Signed
Located in Ibadan, Oyo
What I wanted was a little more structure, a little more sense of purpose, and some acknowledgment from somewhere that I was important. Give them a sense of belonging to the society...
Canvas, Charcoal, Acrylic
Benavente Solis. bull. dream of a bullfighter expressionist acrylic
Located in CORAL GABLES - MIAMI, FL
bull. dream of a bullfighter original expressionist acrylic painting During its first exhibition in Paris, the French press catalogs it like "The Catalan Sorolla". Honorary Member of...
Wood, Oil
San Martino Viewpoint Naples, Expressionist, Painting On Wood, Landscape
Located in Deddington, GB
San Martino Viewpoint, Naples, is an Original Painting by Eleanor Woolley. This Painting is inspired by travel memories and sketches. It depicts some tourists looking out over the h...
Oil
To the Peak, Painting, Oil on Canvas
By Greg Dorosh
Located in Yardley, PA
To the Peak is a creation that was inspired from my visits to the Canadian Rocky Mountains. I wanted to convey the awe and energy that is felt when you're within these massive mount...
Oil
"Naturamorta con fiori " cm. 70 x 52 Olio su tavola di legno 1970 ca
By Enzo FARAONI
Located in Torino, IT
natura morta con bellissima cornice in legno Enzo FARAONI (S. Stefano Magra, La Spezia, 1920/2017) Signed top right Enzo Faraoni is a great painter and engraver from Florence; he e...
Wood, Oil
Ecstatic Fatigue, abstracted female figure, nude
By Tom Bennett
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Oil on board. Abstracted, expressionist, figurative. Cool and warm greys with heightened color.
Oil, Board
"Under the Water" - Expressionist Figurative Painting of a Woman in Cool Palette
Located in Carmel, CA
Via Li (Chinese, born 1997) "Under the Water" 2022 Acrylic Paint, Canvas, Stretcher Bars The artist signed the back of the painting. 'Under the Water' by Via Li is a compelling 48" ...
Canvas, Acrylic, Stretcher Bars
$10,800Sale Price|20% Off
They found the pike but it wasn’t alone
Located in Buffalo, NY
An original oil, oil stick and charcoal diptych painting on canvas by Contemporary female artist Dorothy Fitzgerald. This monumental work measures 60" (h) x 120" (w) This work was featured in the recent exhibition of The Corridors Gallery at Hotel Henry...
Canvas, Mixed Media, Oil
Coral tulips 3
By Elena Lukina
Located in Zofingen, AG
In this piece, I poured my emotions into the vibrant coral tulips, capturing their delicate beauty through textured oil strokes. The interplay of expressionism and realism invites yo...
Canvas, Oil, Cardboard
Coral tulips 2
By Elena Lukina
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
$60,000Sale Price|20% Off
'Light Keeper' by Masri - Stunning Expressionist Abstract Portrait - Mixed Media
Located in Carmel, CA
Masri (Lebanese-Italian, 1965) 'Light Keeper' 2022 Oil paint, magazine paper, mixed media, canvas, stretcher bars The artist signed the painting on the back and bottom left. 'Light ...
Canvas, Mixed Media, Oil, Magazine Paper, Stretcher Bars
Almazan Realistic Still Life Acrylic Painting, Framed, 2000s
Located in CORAL GABLES - MIAMI, FL
Almazan Realistic Still Life Acrylic Painting framed MIQUEL was an artist focused on the art of realism. His structured works on his great mastery of drawing, are romantic and tran...
Pastel
$7,093Sale Price|20% Off
Party in the Trees
Located in Coltishall, GB
Inspired by Rachaels winter dog walks along the Norfolk Broads with her lovely dog Sandy. Rachael Dalzell’s paintings are colourful and expressive. Her free and lively use of paint...
Canvas, Wood, Acrylic
"The Glance" - Contemporary Colorful Expressionist Abstract Portrait
Located in Carmel, CA
Masri Hayssam (Lebanese, Italian, born 1965) "The Glance" 2022 Acrylic paint and oil paint on canvas, stretcher bars The artist signed the bottom left of the painting. In "The Glanc...
Canvas, Mixed Media, Oil, Acrylic, Stretcher Bars
$2,244Sale Price|20% Off
Untitled. 1970. Cardboard, tempera. 49.8x54.5cm
Located in Riga, LV
Vladimir Glushenkov (1948-2009) (May 21, 1948, Riga - December 26, 2009, Riga) - painter, graphic artist, poet, translator. Vladimir Glushkenkov was born in family with Russian-Poli...
Tempera, Cardboard
$1,408Sale Price|20% Off
Soulmate 1: Expressionist Acrylic Painting on Canvas, Unframed
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
Colorado Summer
Located in Wiscasett, ME
Oil pastel and watercolor on paper. Signed and dated to lower right edge 'Vaclav Vytlacil 1953'. Signed and dated to lower left edge 'Vytlacil 1953'. It is also titled on reverse. Pa...
Oil Pastel, Watercolor
$1,200Sale Price|20% Off
Beauty in African 1: Charcoal and Acrylic Painting on Canvas
Located in Ibadan, Oyo
A woman's polite devotion is her greatest beauty. Painting Charcoal, Acrylic on canvas Size: 18W x 24H Inches Unmounted artwork Ships in a well-protected tube from Nigeria This work...
Canvas, Charcoal, Acrylic
$5,401Sale Price|20% Off
Symphony of summer
Located in Coltishall, GB
Symphony of Summer is inspired by a hazy meadow on a warm summer’s day… Much of Rachael’s work is based on her life in Norfolk, where she is surrounded by nature and enjoys dog walk...
Canvas, Wood, Acrylic
$2,200Sale Price|20% Off
Celebrate Life 9 Acrylic Painting, Expressionist Style, 21st Century
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
"Amara" - Textured Marina Seascape with Sailboats - Expressionist Oil Painting
Located in Carmel, CA
Natalia Aandewiel (Ukrainian, born 1996) "Amara" 2024 Oil Paint, Canvas, Stretcher Bars The artist signed the back of the painting. Natalia Aandewie...
Canvas, Oil, Stretcher Bars
"Torch Lily" (2025), Original Impressionist Floral Still-Life Oil Painting
By Jill Soukup
Located in Denver, CO
Jill Soukup's "Torch Lily" (2025) is an original, handmade oil painting on canvas that depicts a colorful expressionist close up of a Torch Lily flower, painted at the '25 Gallery 12...
Oil, Canvas
$6,000
Woman with Flowers III, Expressionist Oil Painting by Juan Garcia Ripolles
Located in Long Island City, NY
Artist: Juan Garcia Ripolles, Spanish (1932 - ) Title: Woman with Flowers III Year: 1970 Medium: Oil on Canvas, signed l.r. Size: 18 in. x 10.5 in. (45.72 cm x 26.67 cm)
Oil
Half-length portrait of an elderly bearded man - Melancholy of a prophet -
Located in Berlin, DE
Friedrich August Seitz (1902 Staffort - 1944 Belgrade). Half-length portrait of an elderly man with a beard. Oil on canvas, 42 x 34 cm (visible seize), 58 x 50 cm (frame), signed and...
Oil
$3,500
Raventos Gig Vertical Barcelona original expressionist acrylic painting
Located in CORAL GABLES - MIAMI, FL
"Barcelona" 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 B...
Canvas, Mixed Media, Acrylic
Diana (Ode to Van Dyke) female nude w blue tones brushstrokes
By Tom Bennett
Located in Brooklyn, NY
This colorful, textured , abstracted expressionist homage to a detail of the Van Dyke painting "Diana and the Nymph Discovered by Saturn", pays trib...
Canvas, Oil
$436
Pocket Green Fig and Pocket Gooseberry by Dani Humberstone- fruit- figurative
Located in Deddington, GB
original Oil on Canvas Image size: H:5 cm x W:5 cm Complete Size of Unframed Work: H:5 cm x W:5 cm x D:3cm Frame Size: H:16 cm x W:16 cm x D:3.5cm if sold together would be H:5 and W...
Canvas, Oil
Alberto Standing 2 and 3
Located in Deddington, GB
Judith Brenner Alberto Standing 2 Original Figurative Painting Mixed Media on Paper Size: H 84.1cm x W 59.4cm x D 0.1cm Sold Unframed Please note that insitu images are purely an ind...
Paper, Mixed Media
$436
Coffee Peloton Series XVII, Eliza Southwood, Coffee Artwork, Original Painting
Located in Deddington, GB
Coffee Peloton Series XVII by Eliza Southwood [2021] original Coffee on paper Image size: H:42 cm x W:59.5 cm Complete Size of Unframed Work: H:42 cm x W:59.5 cm x D:0.1cm Sold U...
Paper, Coffee
Horned and Read, colorful mythological figure, spiritual, blue ground
By Janet Morgan
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Watercolor, mixed media, using resists. Janet Morgan’s explosive art captures the exuberance and deep wisdom we humans yearn to experience. Her sense of...
Mixed Media, Watercolor, Archival Paper
$841Sale Price|20% Off
Spring
Located in Riga, LV
Edgars Vinters (1919-2014) Edgars Vinters is working in oil, watercolor and monotype techniques. He paints landscapes in different seasons and flowers. In 1970 the significant place...
Oil, Cardboard
Fantasy with Flowers 27
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
Sojourner, Painting, Oil on Canvas
Located in Yardley, PA
As she walks away from the crowd on her own she seems intent and focused on the task at hand. The painting is soft and blurred to add to the feeling of peace and serene that is felt...
Oil
$48,000
Child with Doll and Buggy, Impressionist Oil Painting by Carlos Irizarry
Located in Long Island City, NY
Artist: Carlos Irizarry Title: Child with Doll and Buggy Year: circa 1965 Medium: Oil on Canvas, signed l.r. Size: 30 in. x 24 in. (76.2 cm x 60.96 cm)...
Canvas, Oil
Yellow Sycamore
Located in Buffalo, NY
An original oil on canvas painting on panel by American contemporary artist Mark Lavatelli.
Oil, Canvas
$1,589Sale Price|20% Off
Flowers. Oil on cardboard, 71.5x56 cm
Located in Riga, LV
Flowers. Oil on cardboard, 71.5x56 cm Aleksandr Rodin (1922-2001) Painter Born in a family of farmers. Wife Rasma Lace - art scholar. Studied at the Stalingrad School of Art, Sarato...
Oil, Cardboard
$1,542Sale Price|20% Off
Boats. Tulips. Bilateral. 1975., cardboard, oil, 34.5x46.3 cm
Located in Riga, LV
Boats/Tulips. Bilateral. 1975., cardboard, oil, 34.5x46.3 cm Aleksandr Rodin (1922-2001) Painter Born in a family of farmers. Wife Rasma Lace - art scholar. Studied at the Stalingr...
Oil, Cardboard
Harmony of balance - ArmonÃ
Located in Yardley, PA
Although it is an abstract painting, the viewer feels the balance and harmony of a Zen garden and discovers its four elements: stone, moss, water and tree, which are found in symboli...
Acrylic
Girl, Painting, Acrylic on Paper
Located in Yardley, PA
My work is about dealing with the real world and above all using the images that surround us in everyday life. I often search for the unexpected. An ironic turn to images or things y...
Acrylic
Landscape with poppy field
By Elena Lukina
Located in Zofingen, AG
In this piece, I've embraced the vivid, pulsating life of nature, capturing the wild, untamed energy of a poppy field. The strokes of oil paint bring out an almost tactile experience...
Canvas, Oil
Mother and Daughter, Modern Art Oil Painting by Sandu Liberman
Located in Long Island City, NY
Artist: Sandu Liberman, Romanian/Israeli (1923 - 1977) Title: Mother and Daughter Year: Circa 1970 Medium: Oil on Canvas, signed l.r. Size: 36 x 24 in. (91.44 x 60.96 cm) Frame Size:...
Oil
Venetian Gondolas 1
By Elena Lukina
Located in Zofingen, AG
In this painting, I captured the serene beauty of gondolas resting on the shimmering Venetian waters. Through vibrant blues and gentle reflections, I expressed a peaceful yet lively ...
Canvas, Oil, Cardboard
Self Portrait, Expressionist Figurative Portrait by Philadelphia Artist
Located in Doylestown, PA
"Self Portrait" is a painting by Philadelphia born Expressionist painter Bernard Harmon. The 47" x 28.5" oil on canvas portrait features Harmon at a young age of about 25 years old. ...
Canvas, Oil
Ski slope, Painting, Oil on Canvas
By Elena Lukina
Located in Yardley, PA
What attracts me to the mountains is their grandeur and perfection. Clean mountain air, impressive size, and the joy of anticipating a Christmas holiday in the mountains. Ski slope, snow, joy of Christmas and a wonderful winter! Painting by Elena Lukina...
Oil
Cardigan Bay, Montbretia, Cornish Seascape Painting, Coastal Art Cornwall
By Rupert Aker
Located in Deddington, GB
A splash of orange Montbretia against the blue sea of Cardigan Bay. Rupert Aker artist sells his works online and in our art gallery at Wychwood Art. Rupert Aker is a Cotswold based ...
Canvas, Acrylic
$8,000
"Old Man" - Original Raw Expressionist Thick Textured Portrait - Earth Tones
Located in Carmel, CA
David Leviathan (Israeli, born 1964) "Old Man" 2006 Oil paint on canvas, stretcher bars The artist signed the bottom right corner of the painting. “Old Man” is a powerful figurative...
Canvas, Oil, Stretcher Bars
Blue Pond 30X30
By Elena Lukina
Located in Zofingen, AG
In this piece, I poured my emotions into the delicate balance between tranquility and fleeting movement. The shimmering water lilies float gently, capturing the quiet moments of refl...
Canvas, Oil
Romantic blues 40X30 oil
By Elena Lukina
Located in Zofingen, AG
In this oil painting, I've immersed myself in the raw emotion of human connection against nature's canvas. I've melded expressionism with a touch of realism to capture an intimate mo...
Canvas, Oil
The world belongs to you 80X100 oil
By Elena Lukina
Located in Zofingen, AG
In creating this piece, I poured my soul into capturing the essence of freedom and joy. The vibrant brushstrokes in oil reflect the intensity and depth of the liberating emotions cou...
Canvas, Oil
Snow White and Redhead 80X80 oil
By Elena Lukina
Located in Zofingen, AG
In this oil painting, I strove to capture the essence of companionship and the gentle intimacy shared between two majestic beings. The warm, soft hues and delicate brushwork express ...
Canvas, Oil
$1,541
Colourful day at Trevaunance, Seascape and Coastal painting, Beach House Art
Located in Deddington, GB
A colourful oil painting depicting a view at trevaunance cove in North Cornwall on a bright summers day. The paint is applied thickly with a palette knife giving life to the sea and ...
Canvas, Oil
Happy summer
By Elena Lukina
Located in Zofingen, AG
In this expressive oil on canvas, vibrant hues dance with light and energy, capturing the essence of a sun-soaked meadow. The figure embraces the warmth, surrounded by the jubilance ...
Canvas, Oil
KOI 2
Located in Zofingen, AG
In this vibrant blend of expressionism and impressionism, I used acrylic and oil to capture the dynamic essence of life, loosely inspired by the fluid, ever-changing nature of existe...
Oil, Acrylic, Cardboard
KOI 1
Located in Zofingen, AG
In this creation, I merged the fluidity of acrylics with the richness of oils, embracing both expressionism and impressionism to capture the spirited essence of a koi fish. Through s...
Oil, Acrylic, Cardboard
BIRD 20
Located in Zofingen, AG
In this vibrant fusion of acrylic and oil, I harnessed the raw, emotive power of expressionism with the subtle delicacy of impressionism to capture the essence of resilience and vigi...
Oil, Acrylic, Cardboard
Heaven Touches Kawela, Oil Painting
By Lisa Crosby
Located in San Francisco, CA
Artist Comments
Mountains rise from shifting seas in this abstract landscape, where color and form balance chaos and serenity. Layers of oil and mediums build a rich surface th...
Oil