Wassily Kandinsky

Wassily Kandinsky: Pioneer of Abstract Art

Wassily Kandinsky (1866-1944) was a Russian painter and art theorist who is credited with painting one of the first recognized purely abstract works. His revolutionary approach to art emphasized the spiritual and emotional power of color and form, believing that art should express the artist's inner necessity rather than external reality.

Born in Moscow and later working in Germany and France, Kandinsky developed his abstract style through his synesthetic experiences, where he could hear colors and see sounds. His works evolved from early expressionist landscapes to completely non-representational compositions featuring bold geometric forms, flowing lines, and vibrant color palettes that continue to influence contemporary art today.