BOOMTOWN NEWS

100 Years of Karl Weschke

Sprengel Museum Hanover recalls the “Myth of a Life”.

Hannover, June 22, 2025 – With a moving event, the Sprengel Museum Hannover commemorated the 100th birthday of the German-British painter Karl Weschke this past Sunday. Initiated by Saskia Renner, the artist’s granddaughter, the evening brought together numerous art lovers, companions, and public figures to celebrate the life and work of an extraordinary artist — one who has long been recognized in the UK, but remains relatively unknown in Germany.

Museum director Dr. Reinhard Spieler opened the event with a sensitive introduction to Weschke’s biography and artistic oeuvre. Born in Gera in 1925 and later a British citizen by choice, Weschke developed an archaic and deeply moving visual language that is represented in renowned collections such as London’s Tate. His art, shaped by personal hardship and existential experience, moves between darkness and light — and continues to resonate today.

Saskia Renner offered personal memories of her grandfather, revealing how deeply his life experiences were etched into his art.

Dr. Reinhard Spieler, Saskia Renner, Karl Weschke (self-portrait),
Thomas Grube and Thomas Schreiber.
Photo: Stefan Schostok

A highlight of the evening was the contribution of filmmaker Thomas Grube and Degeto CEO Thomas Schreiber, who shared the story behind the documentary “Karl Weschke – Myth of a Life” (NDR/Arte, 2000). They provided insight into the creation of the film, which traces Weschke’s journey from a troubled childhood and wartime imprisonment to his later years as a reclusive artist in Cornwall, up to his longing for Egypt - and also triggers a moving reunion with his daughter.

Following their talk, the film — produced by Boomtown Media — was screened. For many in the audience, it was an emotional experience that made Weschke’s life story and his charismatic yet wounded personality palpable.

To close the evening, guests were served Manner wafers — Weschke’s favorite treat.

The anniversary year continues with a major retrospective: “Karl Weschke. Back in Town.” will be on view at the Gera Art Collection from October 26, 2025, to February 15, 2026. A group excursion to the opening is planned. In addition, the recently launched biography “Painting Order out of Chaos”, presented in Dublin, will soon be available in German.Saskia Renner invites all art lovers to engage with Karl Weschke’s fascinating life and work — and to discover an artist whose relevance is more striking than ever.

Body on the Beach, 1977–8, Karl Weschke (Tate Gallery)