Kurt Schwitters

Date of Birth: June 20, 1887

Zodiac Sign: Gemini

Date of Death: January 8, 1948

Biography

Kurt Schwitters was a German artist born on June 20, 1887, in Hanover, Germany. He is best known for his work in the Dada movement and for pioneering the art form known as Merz, which involves creating art from found objects and everyday materials. Schwitters studied at the Dresden Academy of Art and developed a unique style that combined elements of collage, painting, sculpture, and typography. His most famous project was the Merzbau, a series of architectural assemblages in his home that evolved over years, transforming his living space into a walk-in collage. Schwitters’ work was often characterized by its playful and irreverent approach to traditional art forms, and he was a significant figure in the avant-garde movements of the early 20th century. Despite his success in the art world, Schwitters faced challenges during the Nazi regime in Germany, which labeled his work as “degenerate art.” He fled to Norway in 1937 and later to England in 1940, where he continued to work until his death. Schwitters’ influence can be seen in a wide range of contemporary art practices, and his innovative approach to materials and form continues to inspire artists today.

5 Interesting Facts about Kurt Schwitters

1. Kurt Schwitters coined the term “Merz” from the German word “Kommerz” (commerce), which he found in a newspaper advertisement.

2. The Merzbau, Schwitters’ most famous work, was destroyed during World War II, but it has been reconstructed posthumously based on photographs and descriptions.

3. Schwitters was also a poet and writer, and he published several Dadaist works, including the sound poem “Ursonate.”

4. He was friends with and collaborated with other prominent artists of his time, including Hans Arp and Theo van Doesburg.

5. Schwitters’ work extended beyond visual arts to include performance, where he often recited his poetry and sound works in a theatrical manner.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Kurt Schwitters

1. “Everything an artist spits is art.”

2. “My name is Schwitters, Kurt Schwitters. I am an artist and I nail my pictures together.”

3. “Merz art attempts to create connections, preferably between everything in the world.”

4. “The medium is as unimportant as I myself. Essential is only the forming.”

5. “My aim is to arouse the curiosity of the public, to penetrate the minds of people, and to create a lasting impression.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Kurt Schwitters did not achieve significant financial success during his lifetime; his highest net worth is not well-documented. However, his work has gained considerable value posthumously, with pieces selling for hundreds of thousands of dollars.