Small Worlds II - Wassily Kandinsky
Small Worlds II by Wassily Kandinsky
Wassily Kandinsky’s Small Worlds II (1922) is an iconic example of the artist's exploration of abstraction, form, and colour, and reproduced on a collection of beautiful wall art and homeware for the bedroom, living room and home.
This lithograph is part of his renowned Kleine Welten (Small Worlds) series, which comprises twelve prints, each executed in a distinct technique. The series encapsulates Kandinsky’s quest to depict the harmonious interplay between various elements, presenting a microcosm of abstracted reality.
Small Worlds II features a dynamic composition of geometric and organic shapes layered in a strikingly balanced yet energetic manner. Circles, triangles, lines, and arcs converge and diverge in rhythmic harmony, creating a visual symphony. The black, white, and muted hues juxtaposed with vivid bursts of red, yellow, and blue emphasise Kandinsky’s skillful use of contrast to guide the viewer’s eye through the composition.
In this artwork, Kandinsky’s profound interest in the relationship between colour and form is evident. He believed that these elements could evoke spiritual resonance, and Small Worlds II reflects this philosophy. The forms appear to float and interact in a cosmic dance, suggesting both individual autonomy and interconnectedness.
The lithograph’s layered complexity and overlapping forms create a sense of depth and movement, embodying the dynamic interplay of forces within a confined space. It reflects Kandinsky’s fascination with the idea of universality within microcosms—a theme rooted in his spiritual and artistic beliefs.
As a Bauhaus master during this period, Kandinsky’s work in Small Worlds II exemplifies his pedagogical principles and his commitment to synthesising art, design, and theory. The piece is both a celebration of abstraction and a testament to Kandinsky’s innovative approach to visual expression, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in a world of limitless imagination and intricate harmony.