ZDF/Arte

The Antagonists – Rivalry in Art: Nolde vs Liebermann

Berlin 1910: The conflict between Nolde and Liebermann tears apart the Berlin Secession and reflects the cracks that will soon divide German society.

Berlin 1910. It all starts with a painting by Emil Nolde. It’s called “Pentecost” and is so absurdly multi-coloured and full of wild faces that the art-minded jury of the Berlin Secession – following the lead of their president Max Liebermann – refuses to showcase the artwork in their exhibition in the spring of 1910. The impressionist Liebermann simply doesn’t understand how one can paint like that, with colours that cannot be found in nature. Nolde frets and fumes and initiates a public dispute – he calls Liebermann’s impressionistic style “weak and corny”. Liebermann on the other hand fights back with solidity and the brash adversary is swiftly excluded from the Berlin Secession. But Max Liebermann is far from regaining peace and quiet as Nolde is just getting started – he wants to become as successful and influential as Liebermann. Amidst the commotion of the Third Reich, Nolde continues the acrimonious fight between expressionism and impressionism.

About the series:

Two outstanding artists, one location, and an acrimonious rivalry – these are the key ingredients for the three-part series “The Antagonists: Rivalry in Art” which deals with envy and burning ambition, drive and the desire to reach new heights of artistic creation, as well as failure and the triumph of success. At the heart of each episode lies a conflict and a break with tradition that will eventually lead to innovation. Through their rivalry we will come to understand their real character and their true story will be revealed.