the life and works of sascha schneider - ETD - Louisiana State ...

INTRODUCTION
There is no surer way of evading the world than by Art;
and no surer way of uniting with it than by Art.
– Goethe
Sascha Schneider was one of the most interesting artists of the late nineteenth and
early twentieth centuries, yet few have heard of him. During his life millions were
exposed to his work, though it is doubtful few recognized his name. He interacted with
most of the major art circles in Germany, had several influential friends, and was best
friends with one of the most (in)famous writers of time, not to mention the fact that
Schneider was one of the few openly homosexual artists at a time when it was illegal to
be so in Germany.
One of the most crucial facets of Schneider’s life and art was the relationships he
made with others. Through talent he obtained a scholarship to the Art Academy in
Dresden, honing his skills through his lessons, though the mentorship he formed under
Leonhard Gey was what he considered his greatest benefit from school. Shortly after
finishing his formal education he met with the man who would become one of the most
influential people in his life, Max Klinger. Their friendship proved to be life-long, and
Klinger not only helped Schneider solidify his place in the art world through his
connections, but he also aided Schneider by sharpening what defined him as an artist.
Klinger also introduced him to the men who became his greatest friends, Richard Müller
and Hans Unger. One relationship that put Schneider’s art in the hands of so many was
Karl May. Although originally a business relationship, Schneider and May formed a
friendship that transcended their work. Overall, his natural proclivities were greatly
enhanced by the relationships he made. One aspect of this thesis is examining the
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