Formal Analysis Paper 1
Artwork:Vasily Kandinsky, Study for “Improvisation 28” (Second Version), 1912
The element of color plays an important role in Kandinsky's composition. In
this piece, Kandinsky uses a wide range of hues, including vibrant reds, yellows,
blues, and blacks. The contrast between warm reds and yellows and the cool blues
colors creates dynamic energy and contrast within each other. For instance, the use
of red in some areas contrasts sharply with the softer blues and yellows. This gives
a sense of chaos, which complements the artwork's overall abstract expression. The
saturation of these colors capture the audience's attention to the abstract nature of
the piece. The colors and the black lines make the painting feel realistic.
Kandinsky's use of line in this artwork is another key element. Lines are used
as energetic expressions to the viewer's eye. There are also many different varieties
of lines as well, from straight to curved lines all across the painting.
Some are more angular, jagged lines that create tension and contrast. The bold,
straight lines that intersect with the softer curves create a sense of structure within
the chaos. The important choice to use both soft and sharp lines creates rhythm in
the artwork. This varied use of line is crucial to the work's abstract style. Another element would be shape. Shape plays an important role in this artwork.
The abstract forms within the painting range from geometric shapes like triangles
and rectangles to more fluid shapes such as curved lines. These shapes interact
with one another by blending into the background while others stand out boldly.
The variety of shapes adds depth to the painting. The arrangement of the shapes
creates a sense of harmony within the chaos. This balance between sharp geometric
forms and flowing fluid shapes makes the artwork well-structured.