Red Spot II 1921

Wassily Kandinsky, a Russian artist, created "Red Spot II" with oil on canvas sometime in the first half of the 20th century. Kandinsky was a pioneer of abstract art, and his work reflects a rejection of traditional representation in favor of exploring the emotional and spiritual qualities of color and form. Made in Europe, this painting embodies the cultural shift away from realism that characterized the early 20th century. Kandinsky was deeply influenced by theosophy and believed that art could transcend the material world to express inner, spiritual truths. The lack of recognizable objects in "Red Spot II" invites viewers to engage with the painting on a purely emotional level, breaking from the established norms of the art world. To understand Kandinsky's revolutionary approach, we can consult his writings, period publications, and exhibition reviews, shedding light on the social and intellectual context that gave rise to this radical new vision.