Wassily Kandinsky (1866-1944), a Russian painter, was a major pioneer of abstract art and Tensions Calmees is a work from the height of his influence. In this work both organic and geometric shapes,  Kandinsky’s non-objective style, his belief in color as a stand-alone element, and his inspiration from music are present. Kandinsky wrote, “Colour is the keyboard. The eye is the hammer. The soul is the piano, with its many strings.”

This work has been part of a private collection and has not been seen in public for 50 years. It is travelling now for viewing before it is auctioned at Sotheby’s in June. It is expected to sell for $25,000,000 to $35,0000,000.

Some struggle to see and then appreciate this work. This may be your struggle. Some guiding questions could be:  How can so many unrelated pieces come together?  Here?  In life?  Can I see this piece through the genius of this artist and through 84 years of curiosity and value? Can I see it through expectations of beauty and discovery, not logic or familiarity? Can I see the guidance of God and spirit in this statement of paint and brush? 

I hope you enjoy the struggle. This image of tension and calm could be a perfect one for our times.

In gratitude, faith and hope,

Sandy Prouty
Minister of Children and Families
Montview Church