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.
$1,600
Iretiola - 21st Century, Contemporary, Figurative Portrait, African Modern Women
Located in Ibadan, Oyo
This piece was born from a moment of stillness, a quiet observation of how we carry entire landscapes within us. I kept thinking about how we often stand between mountains we did not...
Canvas, Oil, Acrylic
The Back of Beyond, Original Painting
Located in San Francisco, CA
Artist Comments
Rural farm buildings serve as the focal point for this colorful Fauvist painting. The structures' forms connect with other compositional elements, each shaped a...
Acrylic
Ballerina
Located in Zofingen, AG
In this oil painting, I've depicted a serene moment, embracing the quiet grace of a ballerina at rest. Blending the styles of realism and impressionism, I aimed to capture both her e...
Canvas, Oil
FRIENDS
Located in Zofingen, AG
In this painting, I've melded vibrant acrylic and oil hues to craft an imaginative dreamscape. Embracing naive charm and pop art vibrancy with a touch of impressionism, it captures t...
Canvas, Oil, Acrylic
I'm Alright, Just Here 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) "I'm Alright, Just Here" is a captivating artwork that captures the viewer's attention with its tender depiction of a young girl. The artist skillfully brings the subject to life, with delicate brushstrokes and meticulous attention to detail. The girl's features are portrayed with remarkable precision, revealing a sense of innocence and vulnerability that tugs at the heartstrings. The expression on the girl's face speaks volumes—a delicate blend of calmness and introspection. Her eyes, a window to her soul, radiate a sense of quiet strength and resilience, hinting at a pearl of wisdom beyond her years. Simon's choice to depict the girl alone, with no external distractions, creates a sense of intimacy and invites viewers to connect with her inner world. "I'm Alright, Just Here" explores the themes of solitude, self-reflection, and the resilience of youth. The title itself offers insight into the subject's state of mind—an assurance that she is content and at peace in her presence. It serves as a gentle reminder of the importance of finding solace within oneself, even amidst the chaos and noise of the world. The young girl's presence in the artwork represents the universal experience of navigating the complexities of life. Her portrayal invites viewers to reflect on their journey, prompting questions about the inner strength we possess and the moments of introspection we all seek. She becomes a mirror, reminding us to find moments of stillness and self-care, where we can gather strength and nurture our well-being. The muted color palette employed by Simon contributes to the contemplative mood of the artwork. Soft, earthy tones evoke a sense of serenity and harmony, further enhancing the atmosphere of quiet introspection. The artist's careful attention to the interplay of light and shadow adds depth to the girl's expression, underscoring the layers of emotion and resilience that lie beneath the surface. Obeka Simon...
Canvas, Oil
Sunny water lilies
Located in Zofingen, AG
In this painting, I captured the serene beauty of water lilies bathed in the soft glow of dawn’s light. Using oil paints, I embraced a blend of impressionism and realism to reflect t...
Canvas, Oil
Fela The Black President -21st Century, Contemporary, Africa, Activism Democracy
Located in Ibadan, Oyo
Shipping Procedure FREE Shipping Worldwide Ships in a well-protected tube. This work is unique, not a print or other type of copy. Accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity. Fela’s Demonstration Of Craze: Nothing has changed since Nigerian Afrobeat music pioneer, Olufela Olusegun Oludotun Ransome-Kuti, known professionally as Fela Anikulapo Kuti, or simply Fela, gave his own epic and hilarious breakdown of Democracy [1980]. As Nigerians all over the world remember and celebrate Democracy Day on June 12, yearly. Fela described Democracy as simply Demonstration of Craze. Looking at it critically, it makes all the sense that there is to be derived from the word. Nigerians have not only been crying from time immemorial, it is not a different scenario today as the same hands are still running the cabal. Nothing has changed, despite the ‘change’ mantrum. Here’s what he said, “Now I mentioned Democracy. In English, an English man...
Canvas, Ink, Mixed Media, Acrylic
'Port-Vendres' Côte Vermeille, France, California, Large Post-Impressionist Oil
Located in Santa Cruz, CA
Signed verso, 'Ant McNaught', (American, 1952-2026), titled 'Port de Vendres', dated 2022 and inscribed '(After Derain, 1905)'. This California Post-Impressionist and Abstract Expre...
Canvas, Oil
Unfurling the Past 2-21st Century, Contemporary, Figurative Painting, Oil, Women
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, Oil
Lingering
Located in Ibadan, Oyo
Lingering" is an artwork that captures the essence of anticipation and longing. It portrays a seated woman, elegantly dressed in an orange gown, engrossed in her thoughts as she eage...
Canvas, Oil
Copons LANDSCAPE OF MALLORCA original realist acrylic almond trees
By Joan Copons
Located in CORAL GABLES - MIAMI, FL
Original work by the Spanish artist Joan COPONS. Oil on canvas . Perfect state
Cotton Canvas, Oil
Macaw Parrot
Located in Zofingen, AG
In this oil painting, I infused the vibrant spirit of the macaw with a lively blend of expressionism and impressionism. The thick, textured strokes capture the dynamic essence of the...
Canvas, Oil, Cardboard
20th century painting of monks in Venice, Italian pink figural work
By Louis Bosa
Located in Beachwood, OH
Louis Bosa (Italian-American, 1905–1981) Island of the Monks, c. 1930 Oil on masonite Signed lower right 14 x 24 inches 23 x 33 inches, framed Born in Codroipo, a small village only...
Oil
Paysage a Préchac - Mid Century French Expressionist Gironde Landscape Painting
By Serge Labégorre
Located in Sevenoaks, GB
* No US duty or taxes to pay on works of art * A beautiful 1960's oil on canvas depicting a landscape at Préchac in Gironde, by the important French expressionist painter Serge Labé...
Oil, Board
Fantasy with Flowers 4
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 ...
Acrylic, Oil Pastel, Archival Paper
Irises on the pond
Located in Zofingen, AG
In this painting, I sought to capture the ephemeral beauty of irises by the pond's edge, reflecting my deep admiration for nature's transient moments. The oils allowed me to blend vi...
Canvas, Oil, Linen
Meneses coast. Marine. original watercolor paper expressionist
Located in CORAL GABLES - MIAMI, FL
Majorca II original watercolor paper expressionist painting. This Catalan painter, settled for years in Mallorca, offers a series of landscapes in which the natural is treated in th...
Watercolor
Flourishing
Located in Ibadan, Oyo
"Flourishing," a masterpiece by Adegbola Deborah, is a visual testament to the profound philosophy that life's highest calling is not merely survival, but the active pursuit of thriv...
Canvas, Acrylic
$1,520Sale Price|20% Off
Landscape 139 by Jean Krille - Oil on Canvas board 50x60 cm
By Jean Krille
Located in Geneva, CH
Jean Krillé’s paintings are known for their expressive use of color and dynamic, abstract forms, blending realism with abstraction in his depictions of nature. His landscapes often f...
Canvas, Oil, Cardboard
Ben (Water in the Hole) -21st Century, Contemporary, Figurative, Landscape, Men
Located in Ibadan, Oyo
Shipping Procedure Ships in a well-protected tube from Nigeria This work is unique, this is not a print or other type of copy. Accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity (Issue by ...
Canvas, Acrylic
Funfair - 1950's French Expressionist Mid Century Oil on Canvas Painting
Located in Sevenoaks, GB
A wonderful 1950's French expressionist oil on canvas depicting figures at a busy funfair, by Parisian artist André Beaucé. Excellent quality work painted with thick impasto brush work. Signed lower centre. Artist: André Beaucé (French, 1911-1974) Title: Funfair Medium: Oil on canvas Size: 25.5 x 21 inches (65 x 54 cm) André Beaucé was a French painter born on May 23, 1911 in Rennes and died on January 2, 1974 in Paris . A pupil of the School of Fine Arts in Rennes, a graduate of the National School of Decorative Arts where he was admitted in 1932, André Beaucé was a pupil in the workshops of André Lhote and Simon, with Yves Brayer . He won the Abd-el-Tif prize in 1946 and was a regular at the Salon d'Automne. After having lived for several years in Algeria, and in particular at Villa Abd El Tif where he was a scholarship holder from 1946 to 1948, André Beaucé returned to France in 1949 and resumed his teaching at the Schools of Paris. His painting is then powerfully expressionist, free from any system. In the 1950s, we notice vigorous, uncompromising, intense portraits, captured in an almost caricatural way. The tones, always very mounted, are opposed with force in a composition cut with vigor. After the dark years of the war, Beaucé’s art reflects a violent vision of a certain reality that is always brutal and yet magnificent. Exhibitions Paris, 1936 to 1945, Salon of the National Society of Fine Arts . Tunis, 1946, Exhibition of French Africa. Algiers, 1947, Abd-el-Tif. Paris, 1948, Letourneur gallery. Paris, from 1950 to 1960, Salon d'Automne and Salon Comparaisons . Paris, 1962, Roy's gallery. Paris, May 1963, Exhibition organized on the occasion of the Estates General on Disarmament , Cercle Volney. First Salon Biarritz - San Sebastian: School of Paris - Painting, sculpture: André Beauce, Georges-André Klein , Adrienne Jouclard , Jean Joyet , Robert Lotiron , Roland Bierge , Andrée Bordeaux-Le Pecq , Henri Hayden , Franck Innocent , Germaine Lacaze...
Canvas, Oil
SEA, SAILS, MOUNTAIN
Located in Zofingen, AG
As I created this painting, I sought to capture the dynamic interplay between nature and human endeavor. The bold sails against the twilight sky symbolize the courage it takes to emb...
Canvas, Oil, Acrylic
$2,800
My Brother - 21st Century Contemporary, Figurative Portrait, Men, Colour Pattern
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
Escape 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) "Escape," a captivating artwork by the talented artist Simon Obeka, invites viewers into a world of contemplation and freedom. The centerpiece of the piece is a woman, elegantly turning sideways, her silhouette mirroring the graceful flight of birds in the background. Obeka's masterful use of color and texture creates a dreamlike atmosphere, where the woman seems to transcend the confines of the canvas. The subdued palette captures the serenity of the moment, while hints of vibrant hues symbolize the untamed spirit of the birds taking flight. The title, "Escape," hints at a narrative of liberation and release. The woman's gesture suggests a turning point, a deliberate decision to break free from the constraints of the mundane and soar into the limitless expanse of the unknown. The juxtaposition of the woman and the birds serves as a powerful metaphor for the human desire for independence, symbolizing the pursuit of one's dreams and the courage to embrace change. Obeka's attention to detail is evident in the delicate rendering of the woman's form and the meticulous depiction of the birds in flight. The composition exudes a sense of harmony and balance, reinforcing the theme of transcendence. "Escape" not only captivates the eye but also resonates on a deeper emotional level, inviting viewers to reflect on their aspirations and the universal quest for freedom. Simon Obeka's artwork serves as a visual poem, inspiring contemplation and celebrating the timeless desire to break free and soar beyond the boundaries of the ordinary. About Artist Obeka Simon...
Canvas, Oil
Positive Gaze
Located in Ibadan, Oyo
Positive Gaze is an Original painting by Esther Obiwuru. Esther created Positive Gaze with Acrylic on a 36W by 48H primed canvas. Positive Gaze fo...
Canvas, Acrylic
Dialogue With Butterfly
Located in Ibadan, Oyo
"Dialogue With Butterfly" is a captivating piece of art that portrays a man with a butterfly in his hand. This artwork is a visual representation of the profound connection between m...
Canvas, Acrylic
$1,959Sale Price|20% Off
Dynamic Dusk, NY-original abstract cityscape painting-contemporary art
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...
Acrylic, Canvas
$1,850
Echoes of Love -21st Century, Contemporary, Figurative Painting, Women Art
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
Light the Christmas Tree! 30X30
Located in Zofingen, AG
In my creation, I've captured the essence of holiday delight. Through the vibrant strokes of oil, I've woven a tale of innocence and joy. The snowman, adorned with a playful red scar...
Oil
My Mind
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
Horses of Branges
Located in New York, NY
The condition is excellent and ready to hang. A photo certificate accompanies this painting and will be included in the forth coming catalogue raisonne. Signed lower right, and dated...
Oil
Irises in the Garden
Located in Zofingen, AG
In this vibrant fusion of emotion and color, I've layered acrylics, oil pastels, and colored pencils to craft a garden alive with movement. My brushstrokes echo expressionist fervor,...
Oil Pastel, Acrylic, Satin Paper
Emile Albert Gruppe Bass Rocks 36x30
Located in Dallas, TX
Emile Albert Gruppe (American, 1896-1978) Bass Rock, 1967 Oil on canvas 30 x 36 inches (76.2 x 91.4 cm) Signed lower right: Emile A. Gruppe Signed, dated, and titled on the stretcher...
Canvas, Oil
$1,688Sale Price|24% Off
Man with Yellow Tie
Located in Los Angeles, CA
ALEXANDER KREISEL "MAN WITH YELLOW TIE" OIL ON CANVAS BOARD, SIGNED RUSSIAN-AMERICAN, C.1935 26 X 19.5 INCHES FRAMED 29.5 X 23.5 INCHES Alexander Krei...
Canvas, Oil
Portrait of a Geisha
By Roland Strasser
Located in Amsterdam, NL
Roland Strasser (1895-1974) "Japanese Geisha" Signed lower right Oil and gold leaf on canvas, measures: 76 x 46 cm In fine white-wash wood frame. ...
Gold Leaf
Expressionist Oil Painting of Young Woman By The Sea Cost, 1970s
Located in Lake Worth Beach, FL
Young Woman By The Sea Cost Artist signed lower right, canvas 35hx39w Nicola Simbari was born in Italy and grow up in Rome. He studied at the Accademia di Belle Arti di Roma, and in ...
Cotton Canvas, Oil
Queen Eniola
Located in Ibadan, Oyo
"Queen Eniola" is a stunning portrait of an African queen created by the Nigerian artist, Theophilus Madaki. The painting depicts Queen Eniola, a pow...
Canvas, Oil
Destination Unknown, Original Painting
Located in San Francisco, CA
Artist Comments
Seen from above, this colorful view of a small village highlights the dynamic play of color. Bold primary hues, softened secondary shades, and muted tones overl...
Acrylic
St Tropez on the French Riviera, Oil on Board Painting by Ramon Dilley
Located in Atlanta, GA
Ramon Dilley — Coastal View of Saint‑Tropez, Oil on Board Painting, 1985 A vibrant and atmospheric oil on board painting by Ramon Dilley (French, 1932–2020), capturing the luminous charm of Saint‑Tropez with the artist's signature blend of color, rhythm, and Mediterranean warmth. The composition unfolds across a hillside of red‑roofed houses descending toward the harbor, where sailboats rest against a backdrop of rolling hills and expressive skies. Dilley's confident brushwork and saturated palette infuse the scene with movement and sunlit vitality. The painting is presented in its original Montparnasse‑style gilded wood frame, richly carved and perfectly suited to the work's spirited Provençal character. The reverse bears the handwritten inscription "St‑Tropez, rue de la Citadelle, 6/1/85", anchoring the piece to a precise moment and place in the artist's career. A compelling addition for collectors of French modern painting and Mediterranean landscapes, this piece offers both decorative appeal and strong provenance. A highly decorative and collectible artwork for interiors seeking French Riviera charm, vintage coastal art...
Board, Oil
Solicitude IV
Located in Ibadan, Oyo
"Solicitude" invites the audience into a world of contemplation and reflection, where the central theme revolves around the power of empathy and its a...
Canvas, Acrylic
Irises Still Life
Located in Zofingen, AG
In this oil painting, I've captured the delicate interplay of light and color through a tender arrangement of irises. My artistic expression melds impressionism with realism, allowin...
Canvas, Oil
$2,885Sale Price|20% Off
Carpet of Bluebells, Rachael Dalzell, Acrylic on Canvas with Tray Frame
Located in Coltishall, GB
The colours of spring as bluebells carpet the woods at Blickling Rachael’s paintings are large, colourful and expressive. Her free and lively use of paint through various technique...
Canvas, Acrylic
"Yellow Landscape" - Vertical expressionist landscape in yellow & black colors.
By E.C. Bell
Located in Miami, FL
Magical expressionist landscape in yellow & black colors.
Acrylic, Canvas
CATS
Located in Zofingen, AG
In this vibrant composition, I've joyfully blended impressionism with pop art, using acrylic and oil to bring to life these charming feline figures. The piece captures the warmth of ...
Canvas, Oil, Acrylic
Poolside, Original Painting
Located in San Francisco, CA
Artist Comments
A figure lounges by the poolside, one knee raised and arms draped casually over it. The person radiates a relaxed, contemplative mood. With loose brushstrings...
Acrylic
'Aspen in Vail' by Jim Cobb, Oil on Canvas Painting
Located in Oklahoma City, OK
This oil on canvas painting by artist James Cobb depicts the scenic aspen groves found along the mountainsides in Colorado. Cobb's use of the palette knife helps accentuate the varie...
Canvas, Oil
Looking Beyond 5
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
"Little Shop on The Corner " (2023) by Leigh Ann Van Fossan, Original Painting
Located in Denver, CO
Leigh Ann Van Fossan's "Little Shop on the Corner" (2023) is an original, handmade oil and acrylic abstract painting with bright colors. Van Fossan was born in Vail, Colorado, and...
Canvas, Acrylic
Morning in a sunny vineyard
Located in Zofingen, AG
In this painting, I captured the vibrant energy of a sunlit vineyard at dawn, blending impressionism and realism to evoke warmth and renewal. The golden hues reflect the morning ligh...
Canvas, Oil
Listen, I am Here
Located in Ibadan, Oyo
'Listen, I am here' is an art Gbenga Eniafe created from the realities of his people. The everyday creative is overlooked even as he presses on. The purple represents his distinctive...
Canvas, Oil, Acrylic
'Still Life on a Table', Musée d'Art Moderne de Paris, Pompidou Center, Nice
Located in Santa Cruz, CA
Signed lower left "Vigny" for Sylvain Vigny (French, 1903-1970) and painted, circa 1935, on artists board prepared by Maison Franco, 19 Rue Pastorelli, Nice. Born in Vienna, Sylvain...
Oil, Cardboard
In Blue
Located in Ibadan, Oyo
In Blue, Yes, I'm in blue not because I choose to but because that's who l am and it tells my story. With a hoodie because I came from this very hood. I drank...
Canvas, Acrylic
"Real cat"
Located in Edinburgh, GB
I love my ginger cat.He can be completely different!). When he's really annoyed he becomes like this! And it's better not to stand in his way)))
Canvas, Oil
Blooming sakura 9 Colorful Expressionist Pop Art Tree Painting
Located in Zofingen, AG
Blooming sakura 9 . Japanese tree. Acrylic paints in soft pink, baby blue, baby purple, lilac, white creamy pink splattered and splattered, creating a sense of shimmer, movement, and...
Acrylic
Copons original acrylic
By Joan Copons
Located in CORAL GABLES - MIAMI, FL
Original work of the Spanish artist Joan COPONS. -Barcelona-jardin. original acrylic painting
Canvas, Oil
Australian Bullfinch on a branch
Located in Zofingen, AG
In this oil painting, I sought to capture the delicate vibrancy of nature through the lens of expressionism and realism, portraying a small bird with a notably vivid plumage. The sof...
Canvas, 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
Gladiolus
Located in Zofingen, AG
In this energetic piece, I've unleashed a symphony of vibrant colors and passionate strokes to celebrate life's vivacity. Merging expressionism with a touch of pop art, I've used acr...
Oil Pastel, Acrylic, Satin Paper
Benavente Solís Landscape - original expressionist
Located in CORAL GABLES - MIAMI, FL
Landscape original expressionist painting. frame Work of the Spanish artist BENAVENTE SOLIS. Perfect state . During its first exhibition in Paris, the French press catalogs it lik...
Wood, Oil
Bouquet of white peonies
Located in Zofingen, AG
In this oil painting, I've captured the soft, ethereal beauty of white peonies, illuminated by a tender joy. I aimed to blend impressionistic spontaneity with delicate realism, each ...
Canvas, Oil