Wassily Kandinsky
Wassily Kandinsky, a pioneering Russian painter and art theorist, is celebrated as a leading figure in abstract art. Born in 1866, Kandinsky initially pursued law before dedicating himself to art. His works, characterized by vibrant colors and bold forms, reflect a deep connection to music and emotion. Kandinsky's influential writings, including "Concerning the Spiritual in Art," cement his legacy as a visionary who transformed modern art.
Book summaries for books written by Wassily Kandinsky
Quotes
The artist must have something to say, for mastery over form is not his goal but rather the adapting of form to its inner meaning.
Color is the keyboard, the eyes are the harmonies, the soul is the piano with many strings. The artist is the hand that plays, touching one key or another, to cause vibrations in the soul.
The deeper the blue becomes, the more strongly it calls man towards the infinite, awakening in him a desire for the pure and, finally, for the supernatural... The brighter it becomes, the more it loses its sound, until it turns into silent stillness and becomes white.
The more abstract is form, the more clear and direct its appeal.
Every work of art is the child of its age and, in many cases, the mother of our emotions.
Every artist, as a creator, has something in him which calls for expression (that is, for sharing with others), whether he be a craftsman or artist.
Each period of development in art corresponds to a period in the development of mankind.
The work of art is born of the artist in a mysterious and secret way.
The artist must be blind to distinctions between 'recognized' or 'unrecognized' conventions of form, deaf to the transitory teaching and demands of his particular age. He must watch only the trend of the inner need, and hearken to its words alone.
The more an artist uses pure colors, the more theatrical the effect.
Each period of art is associated with a particular form of inspiration. This inspiration may be the outcome of the general spiritual outlook of the time.
An empty canvas is a living wonder... far lovelier than certain pictures.