“The Elbe Near Dresden” is an artwork by Oskar Kokoschka, created circa 1921. It is a cityscape rendered in oil on canvas, measuring 80 x 59.6 cm. Prominent within the Expressionism art movement, this piece is housed in the Detroit Institute of Arts in Detroit, Michigan, USA.
The artwork depicts a vibrant and expressive scene along the Elbe River near Dresden. Rich, bold colors dominate the canvas, with a focus on the interplay between natural and architectural forms. The energetic brushstrokes characteristic of Expressionism convey a sense of dynamism and intensity. The composition juxtaposes the tranquility of the river with the bustling life of the city, capturing a moment in time with emotional depth and vividness. The use of contrasting colors and dramatic lighting accentuates the overall atmosphere, reflecting Kokoschka’s unique artistic vision and his contribution to the Expressionist movement.
