This thesis explores the conditions of painting artists in the former GDR. The conclusion after studying rather many artists excepted paintings is, that they had a very personal style within the figuration, considering the official prescription of Social realism. The main objective for the study is common motives and changes over time. It showed a development against greater freedom in expression. A closer analyse of one painter´s work (Susanne Kandt-Horn) and of the exhibitions in Rostock Art Museum during the 80´s illustrates the circumstances under which the artists lived.