The apocalyptic landscapes of Ludwig Meidner

Cook, Catherine (2015). The apocalyptic landscapes of Ludwig Meidner. University of Birmingham. M.Res.

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Abstract

The thesis examines the apocalyptic landscape paintings of Ludwig Meidner (1884-1966), executed in Berlin between the years of 1911 and 1916. Meidner was an early adherent of the early generation of Expressionism. His creative project is, therefore, explored within the broader paradigm of German Expressionism. The apocalyptic landscapes are examined through a discussion of three themes: ideas of decline in German culture and Expressionist messianism, the experience of modernity and Meidner's cityscape, and the apocalypse and revolution.

Meidner and his contemporary Expressionist artists were influenced by a discourse which argued that German culture was in a state of decline and that artists were responsible for inciting its renewal. They were also a driving force of this discourse, interpreting its significance to be the messianic role of artists in the development of culture. Meidner was unique among his artistic contemporaries for claiming that cities were the 'new homeland' of German citizens. He saw the modem metropolis as the crucial site for initiating real cultural change. His representation of the city during an apocalypse demonstrates Expressionist ideas about creation through destruction. The thesis argues that Meidner' s apocalyptic landscapes are positive expressions of ideas relating to radical revolution.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Masters by Research > M.Res.)

Award Type:

Masters by Research > M.Res.

Supervisor(s):