Paula Modersohn-Becker Museum: Camille Claudel & Bernhard Hoetger

In 1905, Eugène Blot’s gallery in Paris presented an exhibition showcasing the French sculptress Camille Claudel (1864–1943) and the German sculptor Bernhard Hoetger (1874–1949). 120 years later, only a slim catalogue booklet, one photograph and enthusiastic reviews remain of this unique moment which, in retrospect, can be seen as the crossroads where Hoetgerʼs career began and Claudelʼs ended.

Claudel was already acclaimed among connoisseurs and Hoetger was then a young aspiring sculptor. Both were initially inspired and influenced by their role model Auguste Rodin (1840–1917) but distanced themselves from his Impressionist formal language and dominant position.

With the most comprehensive presentation of Claudel's work in Germany for almost 20 years and a selection of the fascinating and little-known early work of Hoetger, the Paula Modersohn-Becker Museum sheds light on a unique moment that proved to be decisive for the reception of the artists’ works, facing the changing trends and social judgements to which their works were and still are subjected.

CAMILLE CLAUDEL & BERNHARD HOETGER
EMANCIPATION FROM RODIN

25 JANUARY—18 MAY 2025

PAULA MODERSOHN-BECKER MUSEUM | BREMEN, GERMANY

On the cover: © Paula Modersohn-Becker Museum 2025

Source: Show On Show