The paintings, drawings, and prints that Otto Dix produced can be tough, even brutal, but they are always captivating and often touched by genius. Neue Galerie co-founder Serge Sabarsky described Dix as “an artist for whom I have a particular love.... He was able to represent the banality of life, the unadorned face of humanity, as no one else can.”

Our exhibition focuses on the masterpieces Dix produced between 1919 and 1939, the decisive two decades of his career. This artistic evolution begins with the artist’s Dada phase, followed by a focus on his superb work in the Neue Sachlichkeit (New Objectivity) vein, concluding with works from the 1930s that were influenced by the northern Old Masters.

Guest curator Olaf Peters, with his deep knowledge and quiet persistence, has assembled an astonishing collection of works for display. The Otto Dix Stiftung in Vaduz and numerous lenders from Europe and the United States have provided invaluable support. Our partner for the exhibition is the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts. We wish to extend our sincere appreciation to Nathalie Bondil, director, and the entire staff for their enthusiastic participation.

With its penetrating, unidealized depictions, Otto Dix’s work is as relevant today as when he first made it. We wish visitors a memorable encounter with these unforgettable images, and, to quote the artist, a direct experience of “life without dilution.”

Renée Price
Director, Neue Galerie New York