Mrs. Keyfitz's Art Blog

Art Inspiration, Discussion & Appreciation




Crucifixion by Emil Nolde (1912) What we learned- Nolde was a member of the German Expressionist group Die Brücke which means “the bridge,” a nod to the different artistic movements they brought together in their own style. Nolde was greatly influenced by the work of children, using the exaggerated expressions (smiles, frowns, etc.) kids would use in his own work to put extra emphasis on emotion. Like many Expressionist artists working during WWII, Nolde’s work (esp. of Biblical subject matter) was confiscated by the Nazis and included in the now famous Degenerate Art Show. Discussion Questions: Why would Nolde use such bright colors to depict the Crucifixion? What child-like artistic qualities do you see in this painting? Can you identify some of the figures in the painting?

Crucifixion by Emil Nolde (1912)

What we learned-

  • Nolde was a member of the German Expressionist group Die Brücke which means “the bridge,” a nod to the different artistic movements they brought together in their own style.
  • Nolde was greatly influenced by the work of children, using the exaggerated expressions (smiles, frowns, etc.) kids would use in his own work to put extra emphasis on emotion.
  • Like many Expressionist artists working during WWII, Nolde’s work (esp. of Biblical subject matter) was confiscated by the Nazis and included in the now famous Degenerate Art Show.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Why would Nolde use such bright colors to depict the Crucifixion?
  2. What child-like artistic qualities do you see in this painting?
  3. Can you identify some of the figures in the painting?

Notes