Kunst und Leben 1918 bis 1955

The publication explores the diversity of the lives and destinies of artists during the Weimar Republic, under National Socialism, and until the inaugural documenta held in the young Federal Republic in 1955. Their works and biographies bear witness to the horrors of persecution and careers cut short, to resistance and conformity. The presentation intertwines the individual lives with the parallel strands of contemporary history and institutional frameworks. Numerous authors shed light on issues that have recently attracted sustained interest from historians. The choice of emphases reflects the history of the Lenbachhaus's collection and exhibition program. The presentation accordingly focuses on the Munich art scene, complemented by major phenomena on the national and international stages.