The exhibition Living Building Thinking: Art and Expressionism explores the development and trajectories of Expressionism in art from the early 19th century to present day. The term Expressionism is invariably identified with the period of art and social activism in Germany between 1905 and 1937, encompassing visual art, literature, philosophy, theatre, film and photography and architecture. In the context of an expanded view on the subject, the why and what of Expressionism offers a rich and thought-provoking perspective on the relationship of the artist and society, and the ever-changing responses and visual expressions that circulate through shared hopes and aspirations for social awareness and change.
Drawn from the extensive collection of the McMaster Museum of Art, the exhibition comprises almost 100 paintings, drawings, prints, books, camera work and video—from formative historical works of the 19th century, hallmarks of the modern age, to contemporary works that include Canadian artists who underscore the continuing relevance and challenges in today’s society.
Living Building Thinking: Art and Expressionism is organized and circulated by the McMaster Museum of Art with the generous support of the Museums Assistance Program, Canadian Heritage and the Ontario Arts Council. It is presented at the Art Gallery of Alberta as a part of Capital Powered Art, an exhibition series sponsored by Capital Power Corporation.