Georg Philipp Wörlen was a German artist known for his work in painting and graphic arts. Born on February 22, 1886, in Passau, Germany, he showed an early interest in the arts. Wörlen's education in art began at the Munich School of Applied Arts, where he was significantly influenced by the Art Nouveau movement, also known as Jugendstil in Germany.
During his career, Wörlen was associated with various movements and groups, including the Munich Secession, an organization of artists who broke away from the mainstream academic tradition of the time. Wörlen's work was characterized by a strong individual style that incorporated elements from different contemporary artistic trends, including Expressionism and New Objectivity (Neue Sachlichkeit).
Although Wörlen's work was overshadowed by some of his contemporaries, he continued to create art that captured the spirit of his times. His works often depicted landscapes, urban scenes, and portraits, with a particular emphasis on the region around his hometown of Passau. Wörlen was also known for his woodcuts, a medium that allowed him to express his artistic vision through stark contrasts and a powerful graphic language.
Georg Philipp Wörlen's artistic output also reflects the tumultuous history of the early 20th century, including the effects of World War I and the interwar period in Germany. Despite the challenges of the era, Wörlen maintained his artistic integrity and continued to develop his unique style.
Wörlen passed away on January 6, 1954, in Passau. Today, his legacy is preserved in part by the Museum Moderner Kunst – Stiftung Wörlen in Passau, which was founded by his son, Hanns Egon Wörlen, who was also an artist. The museum houses a significant collection of Georg Philipp Wörlen's works, as well as contemporary art pieces, serving as a testament to his contribution to German art and his influence on subsequent generations of artists.