Paula Modersohn-Becker’s Self-Portrait on Sixth Wedding (Anniversary) Day is a powerful piece that captures the inner turmoil and complexity of the artist’s life. Despite the historic significance of being the first nude self-portrait by a woman artist, Modersohn-Becker’s work has never received a major retrospective in a U.S. museum until now. The exhibition “Paula Modersohn-Becker: I Am Me” at the Art Institute of Chicago offers a rare opportunity to explore the life and art of this influential proto-expressionist artist.
Modersohn-Becker’s journey as an artist was marked by a constant struggle to balance her desire for creative independence with societal expectations of marriage and motherhood. Her self-portraits, such as the one on her sixth wedding anniversary, reveal a woman grappling with her identity and the conflicting demands placed upon her. The exhibition showcases over 50 paintings, 15 large-scale drawings, and five etchings that reflect Modersohn-Becker’s evolving style and themes.
One of the key aspects of Modersohn-Becker’s work is her ability to capture the essence of her subjects, whether it be landscapes, still lifes, or portraits. Her early drawings, which focus on older women and young girls, reveal a deep sense of empathy and humanity. Despite her empathy in depicting the working class and families around her, Modersohn-Becker’s work was later deemed “degenerate” by the Nazis, underscoring the challenges she faced as a pioneering artist.
The exhibition also delves into Modersohn-Becker’s personal life, including her relationships with fellow artists such as Rainer Maria Rilke and Otto Modersohn. Through her letters and journals, we gain insight into the internal struggles and external pressures that shaped her artistic vision. The title of the exhibition, “I Am Me,” reflects Modersohn-Becker’s quest for self-identity and creative fulfillment amidst societal constraints.
Overall, “Paula Modersohn-Becker: I Am Me” offers a comprehensive and poignant exploration of an artist ahead of her time. The exhibition invites viewers to reflect on the enduring legacy of Modersohn-Becker’s work and the complex intersections of art, gender, and society. By shedding light on her life and art, the exhibition honors Modersohn-Becker’s singular vision and contributions to the art world.
