Hans Potthof (1911-2003) was one of the most important Swiss artists of the 20th century. In
the 1930s and early 1940s his works were characterised by progressive compositions and an
impulsive painting technique. During that period the young artist distinguished himself as an
innovative proponent of post-Expressionism Surrealism and of the New Objectivity movement. In
his early years alongside his paintings Potthof also created photographic works. Although
very little of his photographic oeuvre was made public during his lifetime the works are of
great artistic value and can be considered groundbreaking in the context of his time. In order
to achieve the desired effect and convey the message intended Potthof chose to use innovative
methods that went far beyond simply creating a documentary record. Hans Potthof's extensive
photographic work and his early paintings are presented here for the first time.
