Goethe
Transformation of the World

Bundeskunsthalle | Bonn, Germany
17 May - 15 September 2019

Johann Wolfgang Goethe (1749 - 1832) is one of the world's best-known German writers who reflected, perhaps more than any other artist of his time, the dramatic changes that sent shockwaves through the very foundations of Europe.

Despite his young age, his fame has spread across Europe and his works have been translated into many languages. He created the characters Werther and Faust whom found their way into every genre of art and every sector of popular culture.

But Goethe was more than just an attentive observer of the dawn of the modern world, he was also an immensely versatile artist who continues to inspire writers, painters, sculptors, composers, photographers and film directors.

This show is the first major Goethe exhibition in 25 years and it places his work within the context of a time which was on the threshold of modernity whilst shedding light on the uniquely powerful impact the writer continues to have.