Egon Schiele (1890-1918) was an influential Austrian painter and draftsman, known for his intense and provocative Expressionist style. Born in Tulln an der Donau, near Vienna, Schiele showed exceptional talent for art from a young age. He studied at the Academy of Fine Arts in Vienna, where he initially followed traditional art canons but soon distinguished himself with his unique and rebellious style.
Schiele's works are characterized by twisted lines, elongated figures, and bold poses. His subjects often include self-portraits, nudes, and portraits that explore human vulnerability and anguish. His art expresses an intense introspection and emotional depth that were revolutionary for his time. Schiele was strongly influenced by his mentor, Gustav Klimt, and the Vienna Secession movement, but he developed a personal and distinctive visual language.
Despite a relatively short career, Schiele produced a vast amount of works that challenged the social and artistic conventions of the time. His life was marked by scandals and difficulties, including a brief imprisonment for charges of immoral artistic behavior, which did not, however, diminish his dedication to art.
Egon Schiele died prematurely in 1918, at only 28 years old, due to the Spanish flu.
