Stafelalp c. 1917 - 1918

Ernst Ludwig Kirchner created "Stafelalp" using brush and India ink, a medium that lends itself to the stark expressionism he was known for. Kirchner was a member of the German Expressionist group "Die Brücke," or "The Bridge," whose members sought to bridge the gap between traditional and modern art. This drawing shows a landscape that is both a physical place and a reflection of Kirchner's internal state. During the early 20th century, there was a growing interest in exploring one's emotions and psychology. Kirchner, like many artists of his time, was deeply affected by the social and political unrest in Europe. His work often reflects a sense of unease and anxiety. The stark contrasts and jagged lines can evoke feelings of alienation and fragmentation. While the subject of landscape seems neutral, Kirchner uses it as a canvas to project his feelings. It is a powerful example of how art can be both a reflection of and a response to the complexities of the modern world.