Max Beckmann

Spatial perception is essential for Max Beckmann (1884-1950), who is among the most idiosyncratic and unique artists of the 20th century. The innovation and modernity of Beckmann's work lies not so much in his choice of subject matter, but rather in its elaboration. Specifically in the depiction and manipulation of space. In this, the painter went through a major development, which can be related to the turbulent years in which his work was created. His development as a painter can be traced by the way he handles space: from early monumental, traditional compositions to angular and alienating perspective, accumulations, cut-offs and striking formats. In this retrospective (the first retrospective in the Netherlands since 1956 - which also took place at Kunstmuseum Den Haag), Kunstmuseum Den Haag examines these depictions of space in Max Beckmann's oeuvre: a lifelong obsession of the painter.