"Abstraktion" by Fritz Hellmich 1951
Fritz Hellmich is a notable figure within the German Neue Sachlichkeit (New Objectivity) movement. While Neue Sachlichkeit is primarily known for its realist depictions of societal issues during the Weimar Republic, Hellmich’s work reflects a subtle evolution, incorporating abstraction while maintaining the movement's foundational ideals of clarity and precision.
Hellmich and Neue Sachlichkeit
The Neue Sachlichkeit movement emerged in the aftermath of World War I, challenging the romanticism and emotional excesses of expressionism. Artists aligned with the movement often depicted the harsh realities of modern life, using sharp lines, realistic detail, and a detached perspective to critique societal conditions. Hellmich’s earlier works align with this ethos, focusing on a clear, analytical style that resonates with the movement’s pragmatic approach.
However, Hellmich’s work also signals a departure from strict realism, particularly in his later charcoal drawings, such as Abstraktion, 1951. These compositions suggest an evolution from the overt social commentary of Neue Sachlichkeit to a more introspective exploration of form and space, bridging the gap between realism and abstraction.
Abstraktion, 1951: A Case Study in Evolution
The Abstraktion charcoal drawings exemplify Hellmich’s shift toward abstraction while retaining the disciplined, structured approach characteristic of Neue Sachlichkeit. The sharp, angular forms in these drawings echo the movement’s emphasis on clarity, yet their abstraction marks a departure, inviting viewers to interpret the work through personal, rather than societal, lenses.
By 1951, the postwar art world was embracing new modes of expression, and Hellmich’s work reflects this broader trend. The Abstraktion drawings represent a dialogue between the movement's precision and the freedom of abstraction.
