Circus Rider 1914

Ernst Ludwig Kirchner made this painting, Circus Rider, with oil on canvas, and it’s like a whirlwind of colour and form. Kirchner’s use of colour and quick brushstrokes really capture the frenetic energy of the circus. Looking closely, you can see how the paint is applied in layers, almost like he’s building up the image through a process of adding and subtracting. The texture isn't too heavy, but there's enough to give the painting a real sense of movement. Check out the way he's painted the background – those swirling reds and greens create a dizzying effect, pulling you into the scene. And notice that intense, dark line that defines the horse’s back, it’s so strong it almost vibrates. There's an echo here of other artists who were exploring the energy of urban life, like Toulouse-Lautrec. Ultimately, it’s Kirchner’s unique way of capturing the dizzying spectacle of the circus, isn't it?