Wassily Kandinsky was born in Moscow in 1866. He was educated at the Odesa Art School and then pursued law and economics at the University of Moscow. He was successful in law and academia. He began painting at 30 and found success there, also becoming a pioneer of abstraction and a prominent art theorist.

Kandinsky of the Expressionism and Modern Art Movements had a condition called synaesthesia. This is a condition of perception in which one sense leads to a secondary sense. Kandinsky was able to “hear” colors and theorized that color causes human souls to vibrate.

This artist believed in the spiritual power of art. He believed that circles hold the tension of opposition as internal and external forces work in this shape. In Several Circles he varies size, color, and space, leaving much to our interpretation. What do you experience here? This piece might call you to circles as symbols of eternity; to old lyrics about circles remaining unbroken; to hope for connections, unity, and harmony.  This composition of clustered circles, some with the hint of an atmosphere, on a varied and dense black ground might remind you of extraordinary views from the James Webb telescope and of trying to comprehend a vast, circle-filled universe and your humble place in it. Maybe you experience here the love that hung the planets and placed you on one of them.

This piece beckons to our imaginations and to giving thanks for this artist and for God, our creator.

In gratitude, faith and hope,

Sandy Prouty
Minister of Children and Families
Montview Church