Fine Art
Ferdinand Hodler

Ferdinand Hodler

Swiss, 1853–1918

Ferdinand Hodler was a Swiss painter, born on March 14, 1853, in Bern, Switzerland, and died on May 19, 1918, in Geneva. He is known for his symbolic and expressive style, which played a significant role in the development of modern art in Switzerland. Hodler initially trained as a decorative painter and later studied at the École des Beaux-Arts in Geneva. His career spanned several decades, during which he became one of the most prominent figures in Swiss art. Major works include 'The Night' (1889) and 'The Woodcutter' (1910), which showcase his interest in themes of nature, human existence, and the interplay of light and color. Hodler's style evolved from realism to a more stylized and symbolic approach, often characterized by bold colors and simplified forms. He is considered a precursor to Expressionism and has had a lasting influence on subsequent generations of artists.

19 artworks