Skip to main content

Expressionist Paintings

EXPRESSIONIST STYLE

While “expressionist” is used to describe any art that avoids naturalism and instead employs a bold use of flattened forms and intense brushwork, Expressionist art formally describes early-20th-century work from Europe that drew on Symbolism and confronted issues such as urbanization and capitalism. Expressionist artists experimented in paintings and prints with skewed perspectives, abstraction and unconventional, bright colors to portray how isolating and anxious the world felt rather than how it appeared. 

Between 1905 and 1920, Austrian and German artists, in particular, were inspired by Postimpressionists such as Paul Gauguin and Vincent van Gogh in their efforts to strive for a new authenticity in their work. In its geometric patterns and decorative details, Expressionist art was also marked by eclectic sources like German and Russian folk art as well as tribal art from Africa and Oceania, which the movement’s practitioners witnessed at museums and world’s fairs.

Groups of artists came together to share and promote the themes now associated with Expressionism, such as Die Brücke (The Bridge) in Dresden, which included Erich Heckel, Ernst Ludwig Kirchner and Karl Schmidt-Rottluff and investigated alienation and the dissolution of society in vivid color. In Munich, Der Blaue Reiter (The Blue Rider), a group led by Wassily Kandinsky and Franz Marc, instilled Expressionism with a search for spiritual truths. In his iconic painting The Scream, prolific Norwegian painter Edvard Munch conveyed emotional turmoil through his depiction of environmental elements, such as the threatening sky.

Expressionism shifted around the outbreak of World War I, with artists using more elements of the grotesque in reaction to the escalation of unrest and violence. Printmaking was especially popular, as it allowed artists to widely disseminate works that grappled with social and political issues amid this time of upheaval. Although the art movement ended with the rise of Nazi Germany, where Expressionist creators were labeled “degenerate,” the radical ideas of these artists would influence Neo-Expressionism that emerged in the late 1970s with painters like Jean-Michel Basquiat and Francesco Clemente.

​​Find a collection of authentic Expressionist paintings, sculptures, prints and more art on 1stDibs.

to
816
717
641
706
701
836
Overall Width
to
Overall Height
to
14
965
2,621
6
6
27
43
32
60
110
127
96
117
43,092
37,741
22,699
8,599
4,554
3,363
2,523
1,204
1,202
1,020
1,006
433
298
1,699
1,341
556
1,484
1,201
973
516
372
362
326
281
270
244
195
173
151
124
103
91
89
86
82
73
3,446
2,153
1,779
1,745
1,306
41
41
39
33
30
860
178
1,673
1,281
Style: Expressionist
Elizabeth
Located in Zofingen, AG
In this passionate dance of colors, I've captured the vibrant essence of life itself through the allegory of pomegranates. Oil paint weaves a textural symphony, blending realism with...
Category

2010s Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Oil

Elizabeth
Elizabeth
$879 Sale Price
20% Off
Self portrait original oil on canvas painting
Located in Sitges, Barcelona
Joan Cruspinera Muñoz was born in 1945 in Tiana, Barcelona. This Catalan artist is a painter, draftsman and painter. His training is extensive and int...
Category

1970s Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Oil

In warm splashes
Located in Zofingen, AG
In my painting, I've captured the exhilarating moment of human spirit breaking through nature's tumultuous wave. The bold palette and dynamic brushstrokes showcase the raw power of e...
Category

2010s Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Oil

Raventos Blue Navy Sunrise original abstract mixed media
Located in CORAL GABLES - MIAMI, FL
original abstract painting. virtual framed RAVENTÓS Mª Assumpció – (San Sadurní d’Anoia, Barcelona 1930). Raventos trained at the elite Sant Jordi School of Fine Arts in Barcelona. ...
Category

Late 20th Century Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Acrylic, Cardboard

Pink coast
Located in Zofingen, AG
In this painting, I've captured the serene moment of a woman caressed by the gentle hues of a sunset at the coast. Through the blend of realism and impressionism in oils, I sought to...
Category

2010s Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Oil

Memo from Kitty, California Abstract Expressionist in Coral and Ivory, Esalen
Located in Santa Cruz, CA
Painted by Anthony McNaught (American, born 1952); Signed verso, 'Ant McNaught', titled 'Memo from Kitty', and dated, '4/20'. This California Post-Impressionist and Abstract Expressionist studied at the Esalen Institute with Erin Gafill...
Category

2010s Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Oil

Scarlet Sails
Located in Zofingen, AG
As an artist, I poured my spirit into this artwork, invoking the raw feelings of freedom and adventure with each stroke. The vivid hues emanate a sense of hope and endless possibilit...
Category

2010s Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Oil, Cardboard, Giclée

Summer Soirée
Located in Coltishall, GB
Summer Soirée. Inspired by Rachaels life in Norfolk where she she enjoys dog walks along the North Norfolk coast and working in her studio close to the Norfolk Broads. Surrounded by ...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Wood, Acrylic

Floating Dreams
Located in Coltishall, GB
’Floating Dreams' is an impressive painting inspired by the North Norfolk Broads and beautiful countryside near to where Rachael lives. Rachael Dalzell’s paintings are colourful and...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Wood, Acrylic

Floating Dreams
Floating Dreams
$5,412 Sale Price
20% Off
Impromptu with a morning rose
Located in Zofingen, AG
In crafting this piece, I poured my soul into every brushstroke, aiming to evoke the delicate interplay of light and shadow. The gentle blossoms whisper of early morning tranquility,...
Category

2010s Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Oil

Allez! At the Match. Toulon Rugby Club. Large Expressionist Oil on Canvas.
Located in Cotignac, FR
Large abstract expressionist oil on canvas of Toulon Rugby Club supporters at a rugby match. Unsigned. Extremely vibrant and energetic depiction of Toulon ...
Category

Late 20th Century Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Oil

Music of the sea
Located in Zofingen, AG
In this artwork, I explore the raw, relentless energy of the sea, painted in a burst of expressionistic and impressionistic styles. The vibrant, swirling colors of the ocean and sky ...
Category

2010s Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Oil

Pre War European Hasidic Rabbi Kiddush Levana (Moon) German Judaica Oil Painting
Located in Surfside, FL
Kiddush Levanah oil painting Hand signed A. Gruenstein. It is not dated or titled. Pre War European Chasidic Rabbis Kiddush Levana (Blessing on seeing the new moon) German Judaica ...
Category

20th Century Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Oil

1970 S HUGE FRENCH EXPRESSIONIST SIGNED OIL - NUDE LADY STILL LIFE COMPOSITION
Located in Cirencester, Gloucestershire
Artist/ School: French School, circa 1970's, signed lower right Title: Still Life with Nude; beautiful range of colors. Medium: very thick impasto oil painting on canvas, unframe...
Category

Mid-20th Century Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Oil

Autumn mood
Located in Zofingen, AG
In this painting, I’ve captured the ephemeral beauty of autumn, where the vibrant colors of the leaves contrast with the serene blue of the lake. Using oil, I blended expressionist v...
Category

2010s Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Oil

Along the golden alley
Located in Zofingen, AG
In this piece, I aimed to capture the serene beauty of autumn, where the whisper of falling leaves and the soft, golden light create a peaceful retreat from the world. The lone figur...
Category

2010s Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Oil, Cardboard, Giclée

Dandelions
Located in Zofingen, AG
In this artwork, I've aimed to capture the transient beauty of nature, an expression of life's fleeting moments. Employing gentle strokes and a harmonious palette, I convey the delic...
Category

2010s Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Oil, Cardboard, Giclée

Dandelions
Dandelions
$370 Sale Price
26% Off
Floral fantasy
Located in Zofingen, AG
In this oil painting, I wanted to capture the ethereal beauty and transcendence of nature meshed with human grace. Each stroke embodies the delicate dance between reality and fantasy...
Category

2010s Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Linen, Oil

In the beautiful park
Located in Zofingen, AG
With every stroke of my brush, I sought to capture the serenity and vibrant contrasts of nature. This piece blends expressionism and impressionism, infusing fiery reds and calm blues...
Category

2010s Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Oil

Beautiful park
Located in Zofingen, AG
In creating this piece, I poured my soul into capturing the serene yet vibrant essence of a park that whispers tales of tranquility and renewal. I employed expressive brushstrokes to...
Category

2010s Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Oil, Cardboard, Giclée

Picturesque sunset
Located in Zofingen, AG
In this canvas, I've unleashed a swirling symphony of sunset colors, blending vivid reds and gentle purples with the dynamic blues of the sea. Through expressionism fused with a touc...
Category

2010s Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Oil

"Odalisque yellow" Oil , cm. 40 x 50 1937 free shipping
Located in Torino, IT
Odalisque ,yellow,orange, orient Giulio DA MILANO (Nizza, 1895 - Torino, 1990) Giulio Da Milano was a Giacomo Grosso's disciple and he was very close to the artists that used to patronize La Coupole de Montparnasse (from Kisling to Pascin, from Derain to Vlaminck). He is considered one of most representative exponents of the Turin’s artistic scene in the ‘30s-‘40s, close to the Gruppo dei Sei. His works can be found in the following museums: Turin, Modern Art Gallery...
Category

1930s Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Oil

Bouquet of mimosa
Located in Zofingen, AG
"In this exuberant expression of life, I've captured the vibrant essence of spring. My brushstrokes dance across the canvas, conveying the delicate yet robust nature of the blooms. T...
Category

2010s Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Linen, Oil

Collage, interior design graphics
Located in Zofingen, AG
In creating this artwork, I explored the juxtaposition of the vintage and modern, the real and the imagined. Using collage materials juxtaposed with delicate pencil and bold ink, I s...
Category

2010s Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Mixed Media, Cardboard, Handmade Paper, Felt Pen, Color Pencil, Paper, M...

Gray fluffy
Located in Zofingen, AG
In the creation of this artwork, I poured my soul into capturing the essence of serenity and mystery. As an artist, I sought to blend the realms of figurative grace and impressionist...
Category

2010s Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Oil, Cardboard, Giclée

"Isabelle s Garden" Modern Expressionist Figurative
Located in Laguna Beach, CA
"Isabelle's Garden" is from Sandra Jones Campbell's recent Summer collection, a series that displays her unique vision of the world and is informed by her current social observation...
Category

2010s Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Acrylic

"Landscape Scene of Mexican Villagers" Expressionistic Oil Painting on Masonite
Located in New York, NY
A strong modernist oil painting depicted in 1971 by Russian painter Michael Baxte. Mostly known for his abstracted figures on canvas or street scenes, this piece is a wonderful representation of his landscape paintings, with expressive use of color, shape, and form. Later in his career, Baxte explores Expressionism, infusing both European and North American stylistic trends. This piece is from later in his career, but we can feel this underlying style throughout. Art measures 18 x 21.75 inches Michael Posner Baxte was born in 1890 in the small town of Staroselje Belarus, Russia. For the first half of the 19th century it was a center of the Chabad movement of Hasidic Jews, but this group was gone by the middle of the 19th century. By the time the Baxte family immigrated to the United States at the beginning of the 20th century, the Jewish population numbered only on the hundreds. The native language of the Baxte family was Yiddish. It is likely that the death of Michael Baxte’s father triggered the family’s immigration. Three older brothers arrived in New York between 1903 and 1905. Michael and his mother, Rebecca, arrived in 1907. By 1910 Michael, his mother, and brother, Joseph, were living in New Orleans and may have spent some time on a Louisiana plantation. Around 1912, Michael Baxte returned to Europe to study the violin. In 1914 he, his mother, and Joseph moved to New York City. Meanwhile, in Algeria, a talented young woman painter, Violette Mege, was making history. Since for the first time, a woman won the prestigious Beaux Art competition in Algeria. At first, the awards committee denied her the prize but, with French government intervention, Mege eventually prevailed. She won again 3 years later and, in 1916, used the scholarship to visit the United States of America. When Violette came to New York, she met Baxte, who was, by then, an accomplished violinist, teacher, and composer. Baxte’s compositions were performed at the Tokyo Imperial Theater, and in 1922 he was listed in the American Jewish Yearbook as one of the prominent members of the American Jewish community. As a music teacher he encouraged individual expression. Baxte stated, “No pupil should ever be forced into imitation of the teacher. Art is a personal experience, and the teacher’s truest aim must be to awaken this light of personality through the patient light of science.” By 1920 Michael Baxte and Violette Mege were living together in Manhattan. Although they claimed to be living as husband and wife, it seems that their marriage did not become official until 1928. On their “unofficial” honeymoon around 1917, in Algiers, Baxte confided to her his ambition to paint. There and later in New Mexico where the wonderful steeped sunlight approximates the coloring of Algiers, she taught him his heart’s desire. He never had any other teacher. She never had any other pupil. For ten years she devoted all her time, energy, and ambition to teaching, encouraging, inspiring him. Then in 1928, their mutual strivings were rewarded, as his works were being chosen as one of the two winners in the Dudensing National Competition for American Painters. Out of 150 artists from across the country participated in the Dudensing, and Michael Posner Baxte and, Robert Fawcett, were the winners. In his 1924 naturalization application, he indicated that he was sometimes known as “Michael Posner Baxte.” One of the witnesses to his application was Bernard Karfiol, a Jewish American artist. That’s when Michael may...
Category

1960s Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Oil, Masonite

On a Clear Day, Oil Painting
Located in San Francisco, CA

Artist Comments
Waves gently roll towards the shore, reflecting shades of blue and green under a bright sky. Tall grasses in the foreground sway lightly, adding texture to th...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Oil

Dramatic, Painting, Oil on Canvas
Located in Yardley, PA
Always looking to find trouble in every corner.. Dramatic. :: Painting :: Expressionism :: This piece comes with an official certificate of authenticity signed by the artist :: Ready...
Category

2010s Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Oil

Port Provençal by Bürgisser - Oil on wood 27x35 cm
Located in Geneva, CH
Oil on cardboard with frame. Total size with frame is 47x39 cm Artist from Zurich Switzerland, unknown from the gallery
Category

20th Century Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Oil

Small Expressionist Clown Portrait #2, 1960s
Located in Soquel, CA
Small and colorful expressionist portrait of a clown by Marjorie Blake (American, 1920-1994). Signed "M. Blake" in the lower right corner. Dated "1969" ...
Category

1960s Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Masonite, Oil

Mountainous Landscape Provence French Expressionist Original Painting
Located in Cirencester, Gloucestershire
AKOS BIRO (HUNGARIAN 1911-2002) gouache/ watercolour size: 9.5 x 12.5 inches Beautifully colourful, original painting by the very popular and highly regarded Hungarian/ French paint...
Category

Late 20th Century Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Oil Pastel, Gouache

Mountain herbs
Located in Zofingen, AG
In this vibrant oil painting, I sought to capture the untamed essence of mountain herbs against the stark, majestic backdrop of towering peaks. Employing a blend of impressionism and...
Category

2010s Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Oil

More than a thousand words
Located in Zofingen, AG
In creating this piece, I delved deep into the soulful presence of the equine form, decorating it with elements of nature to symbolize purity and renewal. The oil mediums allowed me ...
Category

2010s Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Oil

Star over the City, Original Painting
Located in San Francisco, CA

Artist Comments
A vast, colorful sky stretches over an abstracted city. Artist Diana Elena Chelaru has intentionally minimized the buildings, letting the sky feel limitless. ...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Acrylic

Colourful Abstract Sunset Sky, French Expressionist Original Painting
Located in Cirencester, Gloucestershire
AKOS BIRO (HUNGARIAN 1911-2002) watercolor/ gouache size: 7.5 x 10.5 inches Beautifully colourful, original painting by the very popular and highly regarded Hungarian/ French painte...
Category

Late 20th Century Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Oil Pastel, Gouache

On the fringe of the forest
Located in Zofingen, AG
In this oil painting, I merged expressionist energy with impressionist light to evoke the serene yet vibrant threshold of a forest. It's about the dance between shadow and color, wit...
Category

2010s Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Oil

Bouquet with roses
Located in Zofingen, AG
In this oil painting, I've captured the essence of beauty and vitality with each stroke, embracing the vintage charm of impressionism and the emotional intensity of expressionism. Th...
Category

2010s Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Oil

Just sea
Located in Zofingen, AG
In this oil painting, I've poured my soul into capturing the ever-changing essence of the sea. I utilized a blend of impressionism and expressionism to evoke the sea's dynamic moods ...
Category

2010s Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Oil

Resurrection, earth tones, golds and browns, mystical religious theme
Located in Brooklyn, NY
This dark and mystical interpretation of the resurrection is an oil and mixed media painting on sintra board, by Audrey Anastasi.
Category

2010s Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Mixed Media, Board

Giselle Soul
Located in Zofingen, AG
In this oil painting, I've encapsulated a tender moment between two dancers, portraying a blend of realism and emotion that breathes life into their synchronized elegance. The soft h...
Category

2010s Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Oil

Summer. Sea. Beach.
Located in Zofingen, AG
In this piece, I immerse the viewer in the depths of a summer atmosphere, where the sea's dynamic caress and the vibrant warmth of sunlight meet. The textures and colors in oil empha...
Category

2010s Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Oil

The Font "Volturnus" (and the Rape of the Sabine Woman)
Located in Santa Monica, CA
Oil on stretched canvas
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Oil

Christmas Bullfinch Breakfast
Located in Zofingen, AG
In this painting, I captured a vibrant bullfinch amidst a tranquil winter scene, its rich red breast contrasting beautifully against the soft blue backdrop. Employing oils, I strived...
Category

2010s Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Oil, Cardboard

Still-life with lilac
Located in Zofingen, AG
In this piece, I've poured my soul into capturing the delicate interplay of light and shadow, the vibrant texture of the lilacs. Each brushstroke carries my intense admiration for na...
Category

2010s Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Oil

Total Beach, Oil Painting
Located in San Francisco, CA

Artist Comments
Whispy grasses sway in the foreground, leading the viewer's eye to a calm ocean horizon. Soft pastel hues with earthy tones paint...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Oil

STUNNING 1970 S FRENCH EXPRESSIONIST SIGNED OIL - GIANT BUTTERFLY/ MOTH PAINTING
Located in Cirencester, Gloucestershire
Artist/ School: French School, indistinctly signed lower right, circa 1970's Title: Giant Butterfly/ Moth Medium: oil painting, on board. Size: frame: 24.25 x 29.25 inches...
Category

Mid-20th Century Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Oil

Golden bouquet
Located in Zofingen, AG
Imbued with the warmth of a sun-kissed day, my brushstrokes danced across the canvas to capture the essence of vibrancy and life. It's a symphony of fiery golds and ambers—a passiona...
Category

2010s Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Oil

The Hidden Boathouse
Located in Coltishall, GB
’The Hidden Boat House' is an impressive painting inspired by the North Norfolk Broads near to where Rachael lives. Rachael Dalzell’s paintings are colourful and expressive. Her fr...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Wood, Acrylic

R Poch Elle original acrylic painting
Located in CORAL GABLES - MIAMI, FL
acrylic painting Born in Badalona (Barcelona). Photographer and advertising film director. Founding partner of the advertising production company La Cosa de las Peliculas: He has ...
Category

2010s Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Acrylic

Sunrise over the City, Original Painting
Located in San Francisco, CA

Artist Comments
Vibrant, swirling sun rays fill the sky, creating a celestial panorama above a city. The windows of the stylized buildings below reflect the galaxy of geometr...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Acrylic

To the beach!
Located in Zofingen, AG
In this oil painting, I've poured my passion into capturing a moment of pure, serene anticipation. The subject, viewed from behind, gazes upon the vast, vibrant ocean, embodying a se...
Category

2010s Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Oil

Large Scale Vintage Abstracted Still Life with Fish In Style Of Henri Matisse
Located in Soquel, CA
Bright, ocean-like, tropical colors in this abstract with fish in the style of Henri Matisse by D.S. Silver. One of a group of works, by D.S. Silver...
Category

1980s Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Acrylic, Stretcher Bars

Field melody
Located in Zofingen, AG
Crafted with oil on canvas, my expression of nature's symphony comes alive. The essence of pastoral serenity is captured through an impressionistic touch, as the stillness of the hay...
Category

2010s Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Oil

Girl with apples
Located in Zofingen, AG
In this oil painting, I've immersed myself in capturing the simple joy of an abundant harvest. The vibrant, impressionistic brushstrokes convey the lushness of nature and the warmth ...
Category

2010s Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Oil

Roses in a vase
Located in Zofingen, AG
In this passionate oil painting, I've blended expressionism with hints of impressionism to capture the ethereal beauty of roses in a vase. The vintage aura evokes a sense of timeless...
Category

2010s Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Oil

Tender love
Located in Zofingen, AG
In this oil painting, I poured my soul into capturing the intimate moment between these majestic beings. The language of their gentle nuzzle transcends words, speaking to the univers...
Category

2010s Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Oil

Autumn Breeze, Oil Painting
Located in San Francisco, CA

Artist Comments
A group of trees stands close together, their autumn-tinted canopies blending into one. Their hazy surroundings mirror the softness of the cloud above. In the...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Oil

Games with Water at Sunset
Located in Zofingen, AG
In this expressionist oil painting, I've swirled vibrant shades of blue and crimson to capture the dynamic interplay of water and light at sunset. This piece reflects the fervor and ...
Category

2010s Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Oil

"Naturamorta con fiori " cm. 70 x 52 Olio su tavola di legno 1970 ca
Located in Torino, IT
natura morta con bellissima cornice in legno Enzo FARAONI (S. Stefano Magra, La Spezia, 1920/2017) Enzo Faraoni is a great painter and engraver from Florence; he expresses the poe...
Category

1970s Expressionist Paintings

Materials

Wood, Oil

Expressionist paintings for sale on 1stDibs.

Find a wide variety of authentic Expressionist paintings available for sale on 1stDibs. Works in this style were very popular during the 21st Century and Contemporary, but contemporary artists have continued to produce works inspired by this movement. If you’re looking to add paintings created in this style to introduce contrast in an otherwise neutral space in your home, the works available on 1stDibs include elements of blue, orange, purple, green and other colors. Many Pop art paintings were created by popular artists on 1stDibs, including Iryna Kastsova, Maria Asuncion Raventos, Masri Hayssam, and Evelyne Ballestra. Frequently made by artists working with Paint, and Oil Paint and other materials, all of these pieces for sale are unique and have attracted attention over the years. Not every interior allows for large Expressionist paintings, so small editions measuring 1 inches across are also available.

Still Thinking About These?

All Recently Viewed