Kthe Kollwitz: A Retrospective

(Hardback)

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Description

This catalogue accompanies the first major exhibition on Kthe Kollwitz in the U.S. in more than thirty years, and the first presentation at a New York City museum.

In the early decades of the twentieth century, when many artists were experimenting with the language of abstraction and the leading figures were almost exclusively men, Kthe Kollwitz (German, 1867-1945) achieved unlikely renown for her figurative prints focusing on the hardships of women and the working class. Convinced that printed art was the most effective organ of social criticism, she developed into one of history's most outstanding graphic artists. Published in conjunction with the first major international loan exhibition of her work in the U.S. in more than thirty years, and the first major presentations at a New York City museum, this catalogue traces the development of Kollwitz's career from the 1890s until her death in 1945, showcasing approximately 130 extraordinary and rarely seen examples of her work in prints, drawings, and sculpture.

Reviews

In the nearly 80 years since Kollwitz's death, images of violence have only become more ubiquitous. It's a devastating testament to her artistry that these works are still so moving.--Alice Procter "Hyperallergic"
The repetition, of drafts or experiments, shows how much creativity a mechanical process can afford.--E. Tammy Kim "New Yorker"
Her skills with basic techniques are unmatched - etching, lines, highlights and shadow all come alive in her grotesque woodblock scenes and drawings of poverty, violence and debauchery. The lucid detail with which she depicts ruin is astonishing.--Grace Byron "Frieze"
Kthe Kollwitz's fierce belief in social justice and her indelible images made her one of Germany's best printmakers. A dazzling MoMA show reminds us why.--Aruna D'Souza "The New York Times: Arts"

Author Bio

Starr Figura is a Curator in the Department of Drawings and Prints at The Museum of Modern Art, New York.