On April 13 at 4:45 p.m., a special documentary will premiere on ARTE: Karl Schmidt-Rottluff: Passion and Rebellion. The film explores the life and work of one of the most fascinating figures of German Expressionism—and in doing so, shines a spotlight on a central theme: color as a means of emancipation, emotion, and individual perception.
I am very pleased to have contributed to this film as an expert in color psychology—not only from a scientific perspective, but also out of a deep personal enthusiasm for the expressive power that color can unleash in art. Schmidt-Rottluff was a pioneer in the use of color beyond mere representation—he let it speak, scream, and sing.
What makes this film so special is that it not only focuses on the artist but also sheds light on the psychological dimension of his work. What effect can color have on us? What messages does it convey when it is freed from realistic constraints? And why is Schmidt-Rottluff’s vision more relevant today than ever?
To mark the opening of the Karl Schmidt-Rottluff House, ARTE invites you to a free preview of the film on April 6, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. at the Clubkino Siegmar in Chemnitz. ARTE Film Premiere: “Karl Schmidt-Rottluff: Passion and Rebellion” ARTE/MDR 2025 Director: Anna Schmidt 52 minutes. The artist was born on December 1, 1884, in Rottluff near Chemnitz, which is why his name includes the name of this town.
It’s a film that not only draws inspiration from art history but also touches the heart. See for yourself. Premiere: Sunday, April 13 | 4:45 p.m. | ARTE. Available in the ARD Mediathek at this link starting April 13 at 5:00 a.m.
