The artwork titled “OK at Easel,” created by Oskar Kokoschka in 1922, is a notable example of the Expressionism art movement. This piece is a self-portrait, showcasing the artist himself.
In this striking composition, Oskar Kokoschka depicts himself in a somewhat abstract and expressive manner, characteristic of the Expressionist style. The background features a large window that adds depth to the scene and allows light to pour into the room. The artist is portrayed in the foreground, bent over slightly, with intense and exaggerated facial features that convey a deep emotional introspection. His right hand clasps a paintbrush poised mid-action, while his other hand rests on a brightly colored mannequin beside him. The bold use of vivid colors and dynamic brushstrokes adds to the overall intensity and raw emotion of the artwork. The artist’s initials, “OK,” are subtly signed at the bottom right corner of the canvas. The piece serves as a powerful personal declaration of the artist’s visceral connection to his work and his place within the Expressionist movement.