New Objectivity — Collection Theme

Objects in UMMA’s collection related to the theme of New Objectivity.

The term Neue Sachlichkeit (New Objectivity) was first employed as the title of an exhibition in Mannheim, Germany, that displayed artwork, created in response to Expressionism. Subsequently Neue Sachlichkeit became a term that was used to refer to a new creative movement that emerged during the 1920s. Its style is marked by a move away from the inner emotion of Expressionism, towards a more sober representation of the outside world. This portfolio includes work by several leading figures of Neue Sachlichkeit, including George Grosz, Max Beckmann, and Otto Dix, as well as photographs by August Sanders. Together, they offer a survey of Neue Sachlichkeit across various media and highlight some of the major attributes of the style, such as portraiture, caricature, and realism.