Adam and Eve (Adam und Eva) 1920 - 1923

Otto Mueller made this woodcut, Adam and Eve, sometime in his lifetime. Look at how the forms are carved out of the wood. It's so interesting to imagine Mueller working with his tools, the resistance of the wood, the way he coaxes these figures into being, and the negative space left around them! I wonder if he was thinking about other artists when he made this; maybe he was inspired by Gauguin's earthy figures, or perhaps he looked to Nolde's simplified forms for guidance? The medium itself lends a certain rawness to the image. The woman's pose is so relaxed, almost nonchalant, while Adam looks more awkward. There is a wonderful sense of ease and tension, just like in life! These expressive marks create a charged atmosphere, which is very typical of the German Expressionists.