Art Institute of Chicago’s Groundbreaking Retrospective Celebrates Feminist Painter Paula Modersohn-Becker

Currently on view at the Art Institute of Chicago, Paula Modersohn-Becker: I Am Me is a landmark retrospective celebrating the life and work of this groundbreaking German artist. Running through January 12, 2025, this exhibition marks Modersohn-Becker’s first museum retrospective in the United States.

A pioneering figure in early 20th-century art, Modersohn-Becker (1876-1907) defied conventions with her bold, expressive style. Her innovative approach emphasized emotional truth over realistic representation, positioning her at the forefront of Europe’s experimental art movement. By exploring themes of motherhood, pregnancy, youth, and aging, Modersohn-Becker introduced a frank and intimate perspective, rarely seen in art at the time.

“This exhibition is much anticipated and long overdue. It will allow visitors to see first-hand Modersohn-Becker’s forceful works of art, ones that have solidified her posthumous place as a feminist icon,” says Jay A. Clarke, Rothman Family Curator, Prints and Drawings.

Modersohn-Becker’s artistic vision was characterized by distorted forms, vibrant colors, and textured brushstrokes. Her figures, often depicted in introspective poses, exuded a deep sense of psychological depth. This was particularly evident in her self-portraits, including the groundbreaking nude works that challenged traditional representations of the female body.

The timeless images she created of young women in forest settings envisioned a deep affinity between the landscape and its occupants, viewing their identities as intimately intertwined. Her portraits, self-portraits, and figure paintings captured the inner essence of her subjects and depicted the female body frankly and knowingly.

The exhibition features over 70 works, including paintings, drawings, and etchings, showcasing Modersohn-Becker’s remarkable range and innovation. From her early days at the Worpswede artists’ colony to her later works in Paris, the exhibition traces the artist’s journey toward self-discovery and artistic expression.

Modersohn-Becker’s influence extends beyond her own work. She paved the way for subsequent generations of female artists, including Frida Kahlo, Georgia O’Keeffe, and Louise Bourgeois. Her emphasis on emotional expression and personal narrative has also resonated with artists across various mediums.

Through her art, Modersohn-Becker continues to inspire and challenge audiences today. Paula Modersohn-Becker: I Am Me is a testament to her enduring legacy, cementing her place as one of the most important artists of the 20th century.