Baselitz's inverted figures are a signature element of his style. By inverting the image, he disrupts traditional modes of representation and forces the viewer to see the painting in a new way. Adler, a symbol of German national identity, presented upside down, can be interpreted as a commentary on German history and identity.
Born: January 23, 1938, Deutschbaselitz, Germany
Nationality: German
Style: Neo-Expressionism
Influences: German Expressionism, Art Brut, African sculpture
Major Exhibitions: "Adler (Eagle)" (1977), "The Heroes" (1965-66), "Die grossen Freunde" (1965)
Quote: "I wanted to paint pictures that were not about something, but were something themselves."
Baselitz is known for his inverted figures. Adler depicts an eagle painted upside down, rendered in thick, gestural brushstrokes.
