Erwin Dominik Osen (1891 – Vienna – 1970)
was a versatile Austrian artist and charismatic figure of Viennese Modernism. After early training at the Court Opera and the Academy of Fine Arts, he co-founded the ‘Neukunstgruppe’ (New Art Group), which rebelled against academic conventions. Osen was not only a painter, but also an actor, mime artist, singer and stage designer – a true ‘it man’ of his time. He was closely associated with Egon Schiele, who portrayed him several times; these works are considered important studies of human gesture and expressiveness. After years in various cities, Osen returned to Vienna in 1945, where he lived until his death. His versatile work is now experiencing a well-deserved rediscovery, including at the Leopold Museum.