Markus Lüpertz

Published in 1983 by Die Gesellschaft, this monograph serves as a significant documentation of the work of Markus Lüpertz, one of the most prominent figures in the German Neo-Expressionist movement. Emerging during the late 1970s and early 1980s, Lüpertz’s work was characterized by a raw, gestural approach to painting that challenged the minimalism and conceptual art prevalent in the previous decade. This volume captures his transition toward more historical and mythological themes, reflecting the 'Neue Wilde' spirit that sought to reclaim the power of the painted image.

The design of the publication mirrors the visceral nature of Lüpertz’s artistic output, focusing on high-contrast reproductions that emphasize the texture and impasto of his canvases. By compiling his sketches and finished works from this pivotal period, the book provides a grounded survey of his preoccupation with symbols, German identity, and the weight of artistic tradition. It was received as an essential reference for understanding his influence on the European art scene, establishing a tangible record for collectors and historians interested in the resurgence of figurative painting during the 1980s.