Various Takes on The Kiss

Created in 1907, “The Kiss” is Gustav Klimt’s most popular piece of work. Visited in the Austrian Gallery Belvedere by many to this day, it’s known as a quintessential example of the Art Nouveau movement. To express our admiration for this legendary art piece, we put together a curation showcasing the various ways artists pay homage to this museum classic creation.

Featuring two people in a blended embrace and a kiss on the cheek, this painting contains a mix of symbols and motifs with a golden color scheme. While the male has bold black shapes, the female is shown with softer features – “spinning circles of bright floral motifs and upward-flowing wavy lines”. Expressing a balance of masculinity and femininity, it brings a touch of delicate connection mixed with underlying elements of sensuality. While some historians believe the man and woman are a representation of Apollo and Daphne in the Greek myth, Metamorphoses, it’s ultimately up for interpretation.

Due to its iconic nature, many artists have created designs inspired by “The Kiss”, but with their own style. Opting to stray from the hug and kiss imagery, they found other ways to honor the renowned painting by using those recognizable colors and patterns with different subjects and themes.

While there are so many ways to show a kiss between two people, our curation focuses on this classic print, reimagined. Despite this, each version gives a unique and unexpected spin on this legendary artwork. From hand drawn illustrations to abstract creations to digital depictions, these renditions span across different art styles and subjects. No matter which print catches your eye the most, each one can help you honor this famous work with a unique twist.

Whether you want to see a sweet llama smooch, an angelic caress, or a graceful display of diversity, this curation brings “The Kiss” to life in new and interesting ways. Keep scrolling to find a portrayal you love.

Didn’t find a print you enjoy? Click here to see all of “The Kiss” art variations available on iCanvas.