Der revolutionäre Michl c. 1923

Karl Wiener made "Der revolutionäre Michl" and the process is right there on the surface. This isn't one of those paintings that tries to hide its tracks. The texture isn't trying to trick you into thinking it's something else; the red and black color blocks are flat and bold. See how the figure is framed by this solid black rectangle, like a stage set for action. The paint is straightforward, opaque, and direct. Look at the way the figure's legs are spread wide, a stance of power, and notice the weapon he's holding. It's like Wiener is saying, "Here I am, and here's what I've got." I'm reminded of German Expressionist printmaking, where the raw energy of the mark is everything. It's this kind of directness that keeps the conversation going.