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Red Beast

  • Creation date1961
  • Dimensions58.0 x 81.0 cm

Explore the powerful figurative expressionism of Misch Kohn’s iconic works – haunting portraits & scenes exploring urban life & WWII history. Discover a unique artistic legacy.

The artwork displayed on this page is protected by copyright law, which means we cannot legally create or sell an identical reproduction. This protection is enforced under international agreements such as the Berne Convention and by national laws, including those outlined by the U.S. Copyright Law - Title 17.

This method fully complies with copyright regulations because it does not involve copying or duplicating the protected artwork. Instead, it is a creative reinterpretation - a new painting that is influenced by the original but not identical to it.

Giclée / Art Print

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Total Price

$ 69

Red Beast

Giclée / Art Print

Reproduction Size

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Total Price

$ 69

The Red Beast is a thought-provoking painting by Misch Kohn, an American artist known for his exceptional printmaking skills. Created in 1961, this color lithograph measures 58 x 81 cm and is currently housed at the Smithsonian American Art Museum. The painting features a dominant red beast with intricate patterns, surrounded by smaller figures that contribute to the overall artistic composition.

Artistic Style and Technique

Misch Kohn's work is characterized by his use of bold colors and distorted forms, which are evident in the Red Beast. The artist's technique involves building up forms with infinite textural variety and intricacy, compounding the strength of the image. This style is a departure from his earlier works, which featured black humor and satire. The Red Beast is part of a series of prints created during Kohn's residency at the Tamarind Lithographic Workshop in Los Angeles.

Symbolism and Interpretation

The Red Beast can be interpreted as a symbol of fear and uncertainty, reflecting the anxieties of the time. The distorted form and bold colors create a sense of tension and unease, drawing the viewer into the painting. The smaller figures surrounding the beast may represent the fragility of human existence in the face of unknown threats.
  • The Red Beast is a significant work in Misch Kohn's oeuvre, showcasing his unique style and technique.
  • The painting's symbolism and interpretation are open to discussion, inviting viewers to reflect on the themes and emotions evoked by the artwork.
  • The Smithsonian American Art Museum is home to a diverse collection of American art, including works by Misch Kohn and other notable artists.
Handmade oil painting reproductions of the Red Beast are available at https://WahooArt.com, allowing art enthusiasts to own a piece of history. For more information on Misch Kohn and his works, visit /art/list/?Filter=AQU2E5-Misch-Kohn-Red-Beast.
The Red Beast is a captivating painting that showcases Misch Kohn's unique style and technique, inviting viewers to reflect on the themes and emotions evoked by the artwork.

Questions & Answers

What explains the copyright situation of "Red Beast" by Misch Kohn?

The copyright status of "Red Beast" - still protected by copyright - follows from the artist's death in 2003.

How can I get a digital file of "Red Beast" by Misch Kohn?

A digital image of "Red Beast" by Misch Kohn can be purchased on its Digital Image page: a high-resolution digital image download.

What is the perceived brightness of "Red Beast" by Misch Kohn?

The perceived brightness of "Red Beast" by Misch Kohn is brilliant. It can be matched to the light of the intended space.


Artist Biography

Misch Kohn (1916–2003): A Pioneer of Figurative Expressionism

Misch Kohn, born Harris Kohn in Kokomo, Indiana on March 26, 1916, to Russian immigrants Jacob and Anna Kohn, embarked on an artistic journey marked by profound engagement with social issues and a masterful exploration of printmaking techniques. His formative years were shaped by the Herron School of Art in Indianapolis where he honed his skills before pursuing further studies at Yale University. Notably, Kohn’s artistic trajectory took a decisive turn during his time at Laszlo Moholy-Nagy’s “New Bauhaus” Institute of Design in Chicago, fostering an innovative approach to graphic art that would define his career.
  • Early Influences: Kohn's initial exposure to European avant-garde movements—particularly Dada and Surrealism—fueled a desire to challenge conventional artistic norms and embrace emotional intensity as a primary expressive tool.
  • The WPA Years: Following World War II, Kohn joined the Works Progress Administration (WPA), immersing himself in collaborative projects that addressed pressing social concerns during the era. This experience solidified his commitment to art’s role in shaping public discourse.

Exploring Printmaking Techniques and Conceptual Depth

Kohn's artistic philosophy centered on pushing the boundaries of printmaking mediums—woodcuts, lithographs, etchings—to convey complex ideas and emotions. He meticulously studied the processes involved, mastering techniques like aquatint and drypoint to achieve nuanced tonal gradations and textural effects. His prints often depicted scenes from everyday life interwoven with symbolic representations of human experience, reflecting a humanist sensibility deeply rooted in his Jewish heritage.
  • Collaboration with Stanley William Hayter: Kohn’s partnership with Stanley William Hayter at Atelier 17 in New York proved pivotal, introducing him to the principles of etching and fostering experimentation with innovative printing methods.
  • The Bauhaus Legacy: The influence of Moholy-Nagy's Bauhaus aesthetic—emphasizing geometric abstraction alongside expressive elements—shaped Kohn’s artistic vision and encouraged him to integrate formal considerations into his thematic explorations.

Iconic Works and Critical Recognition

Kohn achieved international acclaim for his distinctive style, characterized by haunting portraits and evocative depictions of urban landscapes during the Second World War. Among his most celebrated pieces are “Season in Hell,” a visceral portrayal of existential angst; “My Grandfather’s Mustache,” which explores themes of memory and identity; “General,” reflecting on the complexities of leadership and responsibility; and “Three Generals,” symbolizing power dynamics and moral dilemmas. His artwork garnered recognition from prominent institutions including the Museum of Modern Art, New York City and the National Gallery of Art, Washington D.C., cementing his place as a seminal figure in postwar American art.

Legacy and Continuing Influence

Misch Kohn died peacefully in Castro Valley, California on February 12, 2003, leaving behind an enduring artistic legacy that continues to inspire contemporary printmakers. His unwavering dedication to exploring the expressive potential of printmaking—combined with his profound engagement with social and psychological themes—established him as a champion of figurative expressionism and a visionary artist who profoundly impacted the trajectory of modern art history. Kohn’s work remains a testament to the transformative power of artistic vision and its capacity to illuminate the human condition.
Misch Kohn

Misch Kohn

1916 - 2003

Quick Facts

  • Artistic Movement Or Style: Figurative Expressionism
  • Artists Or Movements Influenced By This Artist: ['Expressionism']
  • Artists Who Influenced This Artist: ['Stanley William Hayter']
  • Date Of Birth: 1916
  • Date Of Death: 2003
  • Full Name: Misch Kohn
  • Nationality: American
  • Notable Artworks:
    • Red Beast
    • The Fisherman
  • Place Of Birth: Kokomo, Indiana
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