The artwork “Spitalskirche, Molding,” created by Egon Schiele in 1918 and located in Vienna, Austria, is a distinguished example of the Expressionist movement. As a genre of sketch and study, the piece is characteristic of Schiele’s intricate and emotionally charged style and currently resides within a private collection.
Examining the artwork itself, one observes the representation of a church, rendered with distinct lines and bold color accents that break away from traditional perspectives. The apparent focus on geometrical shapes and the deconstruction of form showcase the artist’s experimental approach to capturing reality, which is prevalent in Expressionism. This piece, in particular, showcases Schiele’s propensity for contorting structures and employing a scornful color palette to evoke an emotional response from the viewer.
In the artwork, the church’s edifice rises dominantly in the composition, depicted with elongated and angular lines. The color application is loose, with an emphasis on earthy tones contrasted with dark outlines that add depth and definition to the scene. The background remains relatively bare, emphasizing the solitariness and prominence of the architectural subject. This starkness and use of space are indicative of Schiele’s technique, wherein the subject is often portrayed with intense expression and a sense of isolation.
