Hans Jürgen von der Wense

Hans Jürgen von der Wense (1894-1966) was a multifaceted German artist whose work spanned literature, music, and visual arts. Born in Ostpreußen, his creative journey took him through the vibrant expressionist scene of Berlin, where he gained recognition as a composer and formed lasting friendships with notable figures like Arnold Schönberg, Hermann Scherchen, and Ernst Krenek. Von der Wense's artistic output was as diverse as it was prolific, encompassing poetry, aphorisms, translations, and experimental compositions. His wanderlust led him to traverse 27,000 kilometers over three decades, capturing his experiences through photography and collage art. Despite publishing relatively few works during his lifetime, his legacy as a universal scholar and artistic polymath continues to be explored and celebrated through his extensive archives, which are gradually being unveiled at the Universitätsbibliothek Kassel. Von der Wense's work invites you to explore the intersections of nature, philosophy, and art, offering a unique perspective on the human experience.