Erwin Osen: Egon Schiele's Artist Friend

A multifaceted artist and charismatic figure in Vienna's art scene, Erwin Osen (1891-1970) is best known today as Egon Schiele's friend and one of his models. While their relationship inspired some of Schiele's masterpieces, Osen also left his mark on expressionism through his work, which is ripe for rediscovery.

A true Renaissance man, Osen counted drawing and painting among his art practices, as well as stage decor and set design, acting, pantomime, singing, cabaret, theater, and filmmaking. He and Schiele shared a studio, as well as an interest in the experience of patients in healthcare settings. Both a biography and a chronicle of the fruitful interaction between two artists, Erwin Osen shines a light on a fascinating and underappreciated creative.