Caspar David Friedrich: Celebrate 250 years of art history in Greifswald

Caspar David Friedrich: Celebrate 250 years of art history in Greifswald

ambience - from the art of travel

Greifswald recognizes Caspar David Friedrich's 250th birthday

This year the city of Greifswald, located in the charming Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, is all about an artistic anniversary: September 5, 2024 marks the 250th birthday of the renowned painter Caspar David Friedrich. He is considered one of the most important representatives of German romanticism, whose influential works such as "Das Eunmeer" and "Hiker over the fog sea" still fascinate today.

Caspar David Friedrich was born in Greifswald in 1774, as the son of Adolph Gottlieb Friedrich, a candle puller and soap songs. These little beginnings led him on a remarkable journey through the world of art. His father enabled him to study at the Art Academy in Copenhagen, where he soon developed his own creative style. Friedrich was not only characterized by his artistic talent, but also by his resistance to the restrictive teaching methods of his professors. In a concise letter, he expressed his opinion about art education: "Not everything can be teached, not learning everything." These words reflect his striving to provide the freedom of creativity about traditional teaching methods.

a legacy of modern art

Friedrich's contribution to art history must not be underestimated. He was a pioneer for modern art and revolutionized landscape painting by turning away from the prevailing traditions of baroque and classicism. His works are not only aesthetically appealing, but also emotionally effective and profound, which they stand out from the works of his contemporaries.

Although he later lived in Dresden and died there in 1840, Friedrich kept maintaining a relationship with his home country Greifswald. It is the attractive landscape of the Greifswald Bodden, which always inspired him and led to his most famous work. The anniversary is duly celebrated in this city. Numerous events are planned under the motto "250 years of Caspar David Friedrich - from Greifswald into the world". Over 300 events will take place at different locations, including important exhibition houses such as the Caspar-David-Friedrich-Zentrum, which is housed in his birthplace.

The Pomeranian State Museum will also play a central role in these celebrations, in which not only Friedrich's life and work, but also the exciting history of Greifswald. This city has experienced an eventful history over the centuries, was among Swedish and Prussian administration and was filled several times military, most recently in 1945 by the Soviet Army. The influences of this time can still be seen in architecture and the cityscape.

The festivities also includes a search for traces, which was initiated by Edgar Schütz to illustrate the connection between Friedrich and his birthplace. It seems as if Friedrich's spirit is being killed in the alleys of Greifswald, an impressive legacy for future generations.

For art lovers and tourists, the exploration of Greifswald and participation in the anniversary events will offer an unforgettable experience. A visit to this city, which is so closely related to the romance and the distinctive style of Caspar David Friedrich, promises knowledge and inspiration.

The celebrations will not only illuminate Friedrich's artistic heritage, but also offer the chance to discover the beauty of the surroundings and the history of Greifswald. A warm welcome to everyone who wants to be part of this special time!