Paula Modersohn-Becker: A Life in Art

This book provides an accessible introduction to the life and work of Paula Modersohn-Becker, a pioneering modernist who completed over 700 paintings and 1,000 drawings and prints. Uwe M. Schneede, an expert on her work, explores how she translated her life experiences into her distinctive pictorial language, particularly during her time in Paris. The book is supported by 120 illustrations and quotations from Modersohn-Becker's letters and diaries.

Format: Hardback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 03 November 2022
Publisher: Thames & Hudson Ltd

Introduction to the Life and Work of Paula Modersohn-Becker



Paula Modersohn-Becker, hailed as one of the great pioneers of modernism, left an indelible artistic legacy despite her relatively short life. At the age of just 31, she had completed an astonishing 700 paintings, 1,000 drawings, and prints. While her sales during her lifetime were modest, her unique style, bold subject matter, and unwavering determination in the face of societal barriers for women profoundly impacted the artistic landscape of the transitional era between the old and the new. Her pioneering spirit paved the way for the German avant-garde and opened doors for future generations of artists.



In this captivating book, Uwe M. Schneede, a leading expert on Modersohn-Becker's work, delves into the artist's personal journey. Schneede focuses on her time in Paris, where she immersed herself in the vibrant palette and expressive brushwork of the French avant-garde. This influential period shaped her artistic ambitions and trajectory, leaving a lasting imprint on her artistic expression.



The book is accompanied by over 120 illustrations, providing a visual glimpse into Modersohn-Becker's life and work. These illustrations, meticulously selected and curated by Schneede, complement the narrative and offer a deeper understanding of the artist's creative process. Additionally, quotations from Modersohn-Becker's letters and diaries add a personal touch, shedding light on her thoughts, emotions, and artistic inspirations.



Through his engaging narrative and comprehensive analysis, Uwe M. Schneede provides a accessible introduction to the life and work of Paula Modersohn-Becker. This book serves as a valuable resource for art enthusiasts, students, and scholars interested in exploring the pioneering spirit of early modernism and the remarkable contributions of this talented artist.

Weight: 660g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780500025628