Upcoming exhibition at the Getty Center will trace the beginnings of the Bauhaus

With the Bauhaus school's 100th anniversary taking place this year, many institutions across the world are marking the occasion with exhibitions aimed at exploring various facets of the legendary school. In Los Angeles, the Getty Center is using the centennial to examine the movement's origins with the show Bauhaus Beginnings. 

Set to open June 11th, the exhibition pulls mainly from the Getty Research Institute's rich collection of rare prints, drawings, photographs, and other materials from both some of the school's most famous artists as well as students and lesser known designers. Many works being displayed here for the first time, the shows offers a "never-before-seen side of the Bauhaus along with more familiar images", explains Mary Miller, director of the Getty Research Institute.

Presenting more than 250 objects, the show will focus on the school's founding and early years. From woodcut prints and collages to student notebooks and teaching aids, the objects displayed tell of the school's early dedication to spiritual expression and its development of a curriculum based on the elements deemed fundamental to all forms of artistic practice. 

While founded a century ago, the teachings of the Bauhaus are still being echoed decades later and its legacy remains celebrated worldwide. “The Bauhaus continues to spark imagination to this day,” tells Maristella Casciato, Head of Architectural Collections at the Getty Research Institute. “By focusing on the vibrant community of artist teachers and student artists who built the school...we are able to immerse ourselves in the unique, philosophical spirit that birthed some of the most enduring visual ideas of the modern era.”

For those unable to swing a visit, the Getty will also be presenting an online exhibition, Building the New Artist, which will be launched on June 11th as well. Featuring interactive activities, the accompanying showcase will further explore the school’s history, theoretical underpinnings, and novel pedagogy. For more info, visit here.