2/6 The Rules Of Abstraction With Matthew Collings

Recent questions

• What inspired Kandinsky to explore abstract art?

  Kandinsky was inspired by spiritual mentors like Madame Blavatsky and Rudolph Steiner, who introduced him to the idea of multiple bodies and Steiner's education program in theosophy. This program, titled "How to Know Higher Worlds," led Kandinsky to believe that art could be higher than nature, incorporating elements like the Primitive, music, and the workings of color in his paintings. This inspiration ultimately led him to explore abstract art.

• How did Kandinsky view the relationship between music and art?

  Kandinsky viewed color as the keyboard, the eyes as the Hammers, and the soul as the piano, with the artist as the hand playing the keys. His insight on music and art influenced his belief that art could transcend nature and incorporate elements like music and color. This unique perspective on the relationship between music and art guided Kandinsky in his exploration of abstract art.

• What sparked Kandinsky's experimentation with abstract art?

  Kandinsky's experimentation with abstract art was sparked by trivial accidents, such as not recognizing his own painting. This led him to create works like the painting with a black arch that demonstrated a logic explained in musical terms. These accidents and experiences pushed Kandinsky to delve deeper into abstract art and explore new ways of expressing himself through his paintings.

• How do artists like Fiona Ray and Sonia Delaunay approach abstract art?

  Artists like Fiona Ray and Sonia Delaunay focus on the relationship between colors and forms in abstract art. They aim to create light through scientific laws and evoke emotional responses through color arrangements. By exploring the interplay of colors and forms, these artists seek to push the boundaries of traditional art and create visually stimulating and emotionally resonant works.

• What role did spiritual mentors play in Kandinsky's artistic journey?

  Spiritual mentors like Madame Blavatsky and Rudolph Steiner played a significant role in Kandinsky's artistic journey. They introduced him to the idea of multiple bodies, including the invisible astral body, and Steiner's education program in theosophy inspired Kandinsky to explore abstract art. The teachings and guidance of these mentors influenced Kandinsky's beliefs about art, music, and color, shaping his unique artistic vision and approach to painting.