Otto Manigk (1902-1972) Oil On Canvas Landscape 1946 Germany

Oil on canvas by Otto Manigk, a renowned German painter born in 1902 in Breslau and died in 1912 in Ückeritz.
Signed and dated 1946 lower left.
Dimensions : 75 X 60 cm.
Good condition; small paint losses on the far left (visible in the photos), visible traces of the stretcher on the sides.

Otto Manigk,  born in 1902 in Breslau and died in 1972 in Ückeritz on the island of Usedom, was a remarkable German painter whose works occupy a unique place in the art world. Son of the jurist Alfred Manigk and his wife Elfriede, née Seidelmann, Manigk received an academic education before turning to art.
Manigk graduated from the Breslau Grammar School from 1912 to 1921, where he was initially expected to pursue an academic career. However, his true passion lay in the world of colors and shapes. He decided to leave the tranquility of academic life to pursue a passion that would shape his life. He began an apprenticeship as a carpenter in Königsberg before entering the Breslau School of Arts and Crafts in 1923.
At the Breslau School of Arts and Crafts, Manigk began studying interior design. This step reflects his initial orientation toward a more practical and artisanal artistic field. However, he soon realized that his true calling lay in the visual arts and turned to sculpture. It was during this time that he met Herbert Wegehaupt, with whom he maintained a lifelong friendship. This relationship was intended to be a source of inspiration and exchange for both artists.
Manigk's desire to develop artistically led him to the United States School in Berlin-Charlottenburg in 1924. There, he had the opportunity to continue his studies and hone his skills. At the renowned institution, he progressed from Wilhelm Gerstel's sculpture class to Ferdinand Spiegel's painting and drawing class. This period represented a decisive phase in Manigk's development as an artist. It was here that he was able to deepen his artistic skills and develop his unique style.
The year 1926 marked another important milestone in Manigk's artistic career. He undertook an inspiring trip to Italy, including a study visit to Ischia. This experience had a profound impact on Manigk and broadened his artistic horizons. The following year, he graduated from art school and began his career as a professional artist.
From 1926, Manigk attended the Johannes Walter-Kurau painting school in Berlin-Charlottenburg. There, he was able to hone his skills and refine his artistic vision. In 1929, another important step in his artistic development followed: Manigk traveled to Paris, which was considered the center of the art world at the time. There, he studied at the Académie Ranson with Roger Bissière, where he refined his artistic technique and discovered his own artistic language.
From 1930, Manigk worked as a freelance artist in Berlin. However, the big city could not completely win the artist's heart. The longing for peace and inspiring nature led him to Ückeritz on the island of Usedom. This idyllic place became his summer residence and later his permanent home. It was there that he found the perfect atmosphere for creating and teaching his art. He taught summer painting classes for Johannes Walter-Kurau's students and helped inspire a new generation of artists. Unfortunately, the outbreak of World War II in 1939 put an end to Manigk's artistic development. He was drafted into the army in 1941 and could no longer practice his art. During a bombing raid on Berlin, his studio was destroyed, and all of his previous work was destroyed. These losses were a severe blow to Manigk, but they could not break his artistic spirit.
After returning from captivity in 1947, Manigk settled in Ückeritz as a freelance artist. There, far from the hustle and bustle of the big cities, he found the peace and inspiration to resume his art. The following year, he was able to exhibit his works at the Schwerin State Museum, a testament to his talent and artistic vision.
In the 1950s, Manigk completed several construction-related commissions, including murals and stained-glass windows. He was involved in the design of the Murchin Cultural Center, the Wolgast Nursing Home, and the Penkun and Zinnowitz secondary schools. With his works, he contributed to the cultural enrichment of these places.
Otto Manigk died on August 19, 1972, in Ückeritz-am-Main-Montenegro. However, his artistic legacy lives on. His son Oskar and granddaughter Henriette inherited his love of art and also became painters. Manigk's work continues to be a source of inspiration for the artists and art lovers, and his story is a testament to the power of art, even in the most difficult times.
Otto Manigk was not only an extraordinary artist, but also a remarkable personality. Despite the challenges he faced, he remained true to his art and left a distinctive mark on the world of painting.