Häuserfassade (Facade) [p. 31] 

This graphite sketch of a building facade was made by the German artist Max Beckmann. Beckmann lived through both World Wars, which profoundly shaped his artistic vision. The sketch may seem simple at first glance, but consider the historical context in which it was created. During the early 20th century, Germany was undergoing rapid urbanization and industrialization, leading to significant social upheaval and displacement. Beckmann, like many artists of his time, was deeply affected by these changes. The war left him with lasting trauma and a sense of disillusionment. In this drawing, the facade appears fragmented and disjointed, reflecting the fractured state of society during and after the wars. Are these buildings damaged or under construction? Perhaps it’s both. The artist seems to be asking us, how do we rebuild, and what kind of structures will we create from the ruins of the past? The sketch reminds us of the fragility of civilization and the importance of confronting the past in order to build a more just and equitable future.