The artwork “Children Playing,” created by Oskar Kokoschka in 1909, exemplifies the Expressionism art movement. Executed using oil on canvas, this genre painting measures 108 x 72 cm and is housed in the Lehmbruck Museum in Duisburg, Germany.
The artwork depicts two children, a boy and a girl, lying closely together on the ground in a playful manner. The boy, positioned at the top right, rests comfortably on his side with his arm extending over and slightly supporting his head. He gazes downward, connecting with the girl who appears relaxed and content. The girl, dressed in a vivid red dress, also reclines on her side, her blond hair cascading around her face. The background of the painting features warm, earthy tones, which emphasize the intimate and serene atmosphere between the two subjects. Kokoschka’s brushstrokes and use of color are characteristic of the Expressionist style, capturing the emotional essence and lively spirit of children’s play.
