Erika Giovanna Klien

The watercolor collage was created in 1928 while Klien was teaching at the Duncan School in Salzburg, founded by Isidora Duncan. The school pursued a holistic approach that united art, body, and spirit. Characteristic of this creative period are Klien's 'Klessheimer Sendboten': humorous, artfully designed greeting cards that represent a synthesis of various artistic elements. In the present collage, we find the same playful combination of typography, movement, and a certain naivety that makes Klien's work so unique. The color scheme in warm and cool tones gives the work a special depth and dynamism. It is no coincidence that this collage is part of the estate of the Rochowanskis, to whom Klien entrusted her works after her departure for New York. The close connection between the artist and the collectors is also reflected in the quality and personal touch of this work.