Käthe Kollwitz (born Käthe Schmidt) was a prominent German graphic artist and sculptor known for her socially conscious works that depicted the struggles of the poor, oppressed, and victims of war. Born in Königsberg in 1867, she studied art in Berlin and Munich before establishing herself as a leading figure in German Expressionism. Her work is characterized by profound empathy and activism, often focusing on themes of motherhood, labor, and pacifism. She was a vocal advocate for social justice and was the first woman to be made a full member of the Prussian Academy of Art. Despite being persecuted by the National Socialists during the Third Reich, her international reputation grew, particularly in the United States. Her artistic legacy is defined by its powerful emotional impact and its role as an instrument of social protest.[1,2,3]
Nie wieder Krieg !1929 · De arbeiderspers / Internationaal Verbond van Vakvereenigingen · book · German, English, French, DutchIncludes numerous black & white photographic illustrations of war mutilations; features a drawing by Kollwitz on the wrapper.
Exhibitions
Käthe Kollwitz: A survey of her works 1888—1942Cologne Kollwitz Collection, Colognesolo
Awards
1929Order Pour le Mérite for Science and ArtPrussian Academy of Art
