This class introduces the work of four important Jewish artists living and working in Germany in the early twentieth century. Together we will visit the nearby Harvard Art Museums for a close, in-person look at work by avant-garde artist Jankel Adler, Bauhaus weaver and textile designer Anni Albers, realist painter Lotte Laserstein, and leading impressionist Max Liebermann. In addition to discussing the distinctive practice of each artist, we will also consider the impact of forced exile from Nazi Germany on artistic trajectory and legacy.

This class is going to meet at the Harvard Art Museum and end at Lehrhaus.

Image caption: Lotte Laserstein, Triple Self-Portrait, c. 1928. Graphite on cream wove paper. Harvard Art Museums/Busch-Reisinger Museum, Timotheus R. Pohl Acquisition Fund, 2025.113.

Lynette Roth is Daimler Curator of the Busch-Reisinger Museum at the Harvard Art Museums. She received her B.A. from the University of Michigan in Germanic Languages and Literature and interdisciplinary studies and her Ph.D. in Art History from Johns Hopkins University. Roth’s research, which has been supported by Fulbright, DAAD and Dedalus Foundation grants, focuses on modern and contemporary art from German-speaking countries, with special emphasis on the relationship between art and politics, and the history and reception of German art in the United States. In addition to numerous exhibitions, essays, and lectures, Roth is the author of köln progressiv (2008), Max Beckmann at the Saint Louis Art Museum: The Paintings (2015), Inventur–Art in Germany, 1943–55 (2018), Made in Germany? Art and Identity in a Global Nation (2024) and White Shadows: Anneliese Hager and the Camera-less Photograph (2025).

Who are these classes for?

Our classes are for everyone—whether you’re brand new to the topic or have been engaging with it for years, we encourage participation from people of all backgrounds, identities, and experience levels. Unless otherwise noted, no prior knowledge or experience is needed. Not sure if a class is for you? Email us at Learning@Lehr.haus!

Why are there tickets at different prices?

Our tickets utilize a Pay-What-You-Can model so attendees can pay a range of prices based on what they are able to pay to allow for greater accessibility. Please select the price point that feels right for you.

Can I eat during class?

While we do not serve food in the study, you are welcome to order and enjoy drinks during class and join us for a meal before or after class. We highly recommend making a reservation if you know you'll be dining with us. Visit www.lehr.haus/reservation to check availability and book a table.