Erich Heckel (1883–1970) was a German painter and printmaker, pivotal in the development of the Die Brücke movement, a key expressionist group founded in Dresden in 1905. Born in Döbeln, Germany, Heckel, along with other Die Brücke artists like Kirchner and Schmidt-Rottluff, sought to break away from traditional academic styles. His work, such as "Roquairol" (1917), exemplified bold colors, distorted forms, and a raw emotional intensity characteristic of expressionism. Heckel's subjects ranged from urban scenes to nudes, showcasing his versatility within the movement. After World War I, he continued to contribute to the German avant-garde, adapting his style to encompass a more classical approach. Heckel's enduring legacy lies in his influential role in German expressionism, pushing artistic boundaries during a transformative period in European art.