Der Blaue Reiter Across Borders | Goethe-Institut Chicago

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Discover the fascinating influence of international artist networks and global culture on the Blaue Reiter, an early 20th-century artist group. Their belief that art transcends borders and unites humanity is powerfully conveyed in the work they produced. In 1912, Wassily Kandinsky and Franz Marc articulated this philosophy in their almanac, Der Blaue Reiter. Through their exploration of Bavarian and Russian folk art, Japanese woodcuts, children's drawings, contemporary music, and works from Oceania, Mexico, and Egypt, Kandinsky and Marc showcased their profound interest in diverse artistic traditions. The Blaue Reiter comprised a collective of artists who were not only active in Germany, particularly in Munich and the Alpine foothills, but were also engaged with international networks. They embraced both abstract and representational forms, valuing them equally as long as they were imbued with inner necessity. Dr. Melanie Vietmeier, the esteemed head of the collection and curator for the Blaue Reiter and the Kubin Archive at the Städtische Galerie im Lenbachhaus and Kunstbau Munich, will delve into the internationality and utopian visions of select Blaue Reiter members. Her insightful talk will shed light on the group's response to the rise of nationalism, the contributions of women artists, and the impact of colonialism on their perception of art. This enriching event, titled "Der Blaue Reiter Across Borders," will take place at the prestigious Goethe-Institut Chicago. Located at 150 North Michigan Avenue #200, Chicago, IL 60601, it offers a fitting venue for this exploration of the Blaue Reiter's global perspective. The event is scheduled for November 16, 2023, and admission is free. Join us as we delve into the profound artistic legacy of the Blaue Reiter and their innovative approach to art that transcends boundaries.