A Leap of Faith into German Expressionism
As a foreign student in France, participating in the Erasmus program was not obligatory for me. However, my curiosity and the inspiration I received from my teacher, Rainer Oldendorf, at ISBA drove me to explore this opportunity. With a deep admiration for German Expressionism, I chose to apply to the Academy of Fine Arts Dresden (HfBK). The academy’s rich history, combined with the enchanting images of Dresden I found online, solidified my decision. From October 2020 to March 2021, I embarked on a six-month journey that would become one of the most joyful and transformative periods of my life.
Navigating the Challenges of a Pandemic
Upon arrival, I worked under the guidance of sculptor Carl Emanuel Wolff, diving into theoretical courses on Romantic art and German Expressionism. This period was marked by the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to the cancellation of many courses and exhibitions. Despite these setbacks, I found solace and camaraderie among the international students in my accommodation, sharing experiences and forging lifelong friendships.
A City of Inspiration
Dresden, with its stunning architecture and rich cultural heritage, offered me endless inspiration. I visited numerous museums and castles, immersing myself in the works of German masters, particularly the mesmerizing landscapes of Caspar David Friedrich. The city itself felt like an open-air museum, a perfect blend of history and art.
Meeting Local Artists: Hanif Lehmann and Christine Wahl
One of the most memorable aspects of my time in Dresden was meeting local artists Hanif Lehmann and Christine Wahl. Hanif, in particular, played a significant role in my artistic development. Born in Rochlitz, Saxony, in 1971, Hanif studied painting and graphics at HfBK Dresden under esteemed artists like Siegfried Klotz and Claus Weidensdorfer. Since 1998, he has been a freelance artist, running his own printing workshop, the Widukind-Presse Dresden.
A Studio of Warmth and Creativity
Hanif’s warm hospitality, despite the language barrier, made me feel at home. He often invited me to his studio, where we shared cups of warm coffee, and he introduced me to printmaking and typography techniques. I had never tried etching before, but Hanif’s encouragement and expertise opened a new world for me. His studio was a haven during the pandemic, a place where creativity thrived despite the closed doors of the city.
Exploring Hanif’s Artistic World
Hanif’s work is characterized by his unique style, often focusing on still life, train stations, and social issues. He has also created numerous portraits of people from around the world. His participation in book fairs and residency programs across the globe has enriched his artistic perspective. The 36th Leipzig Graphic Arts Fair, which features over 100 artists and explores the theme of “hortus secretus,” highlights Hanif’s commitment to the art of printmaking. His contributions to the fair, along with other artists from Saxony, Saxony-Anhalt, and Thuringia, showcase a diverse range of interpretations, from concrete garden scenes to fantastical creations.
The Value of Friendship and Mentorship
Despite the challenges of the pandemic, my time in Dresden was invaluable. Hanif’s generosity extended beyond art; he became a friend and mentor. His fluent English and keen interest in music and history made our conversations enlightening and enjoyable. The opportunity to work with him, especially in his printing workshop, was a highlight of my Erasmus experience. We explored various printmaking techniques and experimented with mixed forms, even practicing bookbinding when academy courses were unavailable.
A Journey of Cultural Immersion
This experience in Dresden was more than an academic exchange; it was a profound cultural immersion. I discovered the nuances of German Expressionism and Romanticism, learned new artistic techniques, and, most importantly, formed lasting connections with people who enriched my journey. The friendships I made, the art I explored, and the challenges I overcame made this Erasmus adventure unforgettable. It reminded me of the beauty of stepping out of one’s comfort zone and the joy of embracing new experiences.
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