Art History

Kandinsky & Af Klint: the Hidden Masters of Abstract Art's Origins

In the world of abstract art, two names often surface as pioneers: Wassily Kandinsky and Hilma af Klint. Though their paths to abstraction and their styles differed significantly, both artists made indelible marks on the art world.

A thread 🧵⬇️

Born in Moscow in 1866, Kandinsky's journey to art came after studying law and economics.
He found his true calling in Munich's art scene, influenced by various avant-garde movements.
Kandinsky's work transitioned from representational to purely abstract, using color and form to express emotions.

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Born in Moscow in 1866, Kandinsky's journey to art came after studying law and economics.
He found his true calling in Munich's art scene, influenced by various avant-garde movements.
Kandinsky's work transitioned from representational to purely abstract, using color and form to express emotions.


He was a key figure in establishing several art groups, including Der Blaue Reiter, which played a significant role in the evolution of modern art.

Kandinsky's notable works, like "Composition VII" and "Several Circles," showcase his mastery in using abstract forms to evoke spiritual resonance.

Hilma af Klint: A Spiritual Path to Abstraction

Born in Sweden in 1862, af Klint's work was deeply influenced by her spiritual beliefs.

A member of 'The Five,' a group of artists with spiritual inclinations, much of her work was a result of these connections.

Af Klint's abstract paintings predated Kandinsky's, though they were largely private during her lifetime.

Her decision to keep her work hidden meant that her significant contributions to abstract art were recognized only posthumously.

Her work, rooted in mysticism, used abstract forms to explore spirituality

Diverging Paths, Common Legacy

Kandinsky’s Public Journey: A prominent figure in the art world during his lifetime, Kandinsky influenced and was influenced by the evolving art movements of his time.

Af Klint’s Private Exploration: Af Klint worked more privately, with her contributions gaining recognition long after her death.

Influences and Styles: Kandinsky was driven by color theory and emotion, whereas af Klint’s abstraction was anchored in her spiritual and mystical beliefs.

Recognition and Legacy: While Kandinsky was celebrated during his life, af Klint’s groundbreaking contributions have only recently been acknowledged.

Their distinct journeys to abstraction underscore the diversity and depth within the movement. Kandinsky, the public revolutionary, and af Klint, the private visionary

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