Exploring the Resurgence of Contemporary Neo Expressionism in Today’s Art Market

9th August 2023 3 minutes read

Step into the vibrant world of Sax Berlin, an exceptional artist hailing from the picturesque land of Cornwall. With his mesmerizing techniques and fearless approach to contemporary Neo Expressionism, Berlin has carved a unique path in the realm of art. From captivating figurative works to thought-provoking abstract works, this English visionary tantalizes our senses and challenges conventional artistic boundaries. Join us on an exhilarating journey as we delve into the mind and mastery of Sax Berlin, uncovering how he is shaping the very landscape of today’s art scene.

Neo Expressionism

Neo Expressionism is a return to figurative painting with an emphasis on emotion and the individual, as opposed to the more intellectual approach of the post-war period. The style emerged in Germany and Italy in the late 1970s, but quickly spread throughout Europe and North America.

The most famous Neo Expressionist artists are those of the ” Hamburg school”, including Peter Doig, Jörg Immendorff, A.R. Penck and Markus Lüpertz. These artists were associated with the Kunsthalle Hamburg and featured in a now-famous exhibition called “Aspects of Recent Art” in 1977.

Other well-known Neo Expressionists include figures such as Georg Baselitz, Francesco Clemente, Enzo Cucchi, Luciano Fabro, Sandro Chia, Mimmo Paladino, Nicola de Maria and Mimmo Rotella. The movement also encompassed artists from non-Western cultures, such as David Salle (USA), Jean-Michel Basquiat (Haiti/USA) and George Condo (USA).

The return to figuration was a direct reaction to the non-representational art that had come before it. In addition to being more emotional and personal, Neo Expressionist paintings often incorporated elements of popular culture – such as television and advertising – into their works. This was another break from the earlier movements that had favored a more intellectual approach to artmaking.

Contemporary art is marked by a return to figurative painting, often with an expressive, sometimes rebellious, edge. This trend is being led by a new generation of artists who are inspired by the Neo Expressionist painters of the 1980s. These artists are experimenting with bold colors and aggressive brushstrokes to create works that are both expressive and visually arresting.

The resurgence of Neo Expressionism in contemporary art is evident in the work of many young artists who are pushing the boundaries of what is considered acceptable in the art world. Their work is often characterized by bright colors, exaggerated features, and distorted forms. While some critics have dismissed this new wave of Neo Expressionism as simply “shock art,” there is no denying that these artists are making a powerful statement about the state of contemporary art.

Whether you love it or hate it, there’s no denying that Neo Expressionism is having a moment in the contemporary art world. So why not embrace the chaos and see where these artists take us next?

The Works Of Sax Berlin

Sax Berlin was born in Manchester but moved to the New York in the 1980s. Here he worked during the day a a cycle courier in the busy streets of New York and by night painted in his studio. Contemporary og Haring and Basquiat he recalls first meeting Basquiat selling hats on the streets.

Berlin’s work is characterized by bold colors and gestural brushstrokes. He often uses current political movements as a topics for his works, 9/11, Black Lives Matter, war, poverty, homelessness and animal rights.

In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in Berlin’s work, and his paintings have been exhibited at major galleries around the world. His work is now included in many prestigious private collections globally.

Art Market Demand For Neo Expressionism

There is no denying that the art market has seen a resurgence in contemporary Neo Expressionism in recent years. This is evident in the increasing number of exhibitions and sales of Neo Expressionist works, as well as the growing interest from both collectors and investors.

One of the key driving forces behind this renewed interest is the strong demand from buyers who are looking for fresh, exciting and visually arresting works of art. Neo Expressionist artists often explore taboo subjects and push boundaries, which appeals to many modern-day collectors.

What’s more, the current economic climate has led to a greater appreciation for art that carries emotional weight and expressive power. In uncertain times, people are naturally drawn to artworks that offer a sense of comfort and hope. Neo Expressionist paintings often tap into these feelings, making them even more desirable to collectors.

With all of this in mind, it’s no wonder that the contemporary Neo Expressionist movement is enjoying a major revival in today’s art market.

Richard Veal