Among the large series of aquarelles painted by the artist in 1922-1923, this work is listed at number 85. They are all quite similar in style: closed forms filled with color and intersecting straight lines as if they are floating in space of the canvas. Circles and triangles dominate – they are, in the artist's opinion, two primary and the most contrasting figures.
This geometric abstraction of the Bauhaus period perfectly demonstrates the well-recognized artist's hand that reached the peak of expressiveness in the Composition VIII. The influence of Russian constructivism of the revolutionary years and the laconic aesthetics of Bauhaus, in which Kandinsky was just beginning to teach at that time, laid the foundation for his further development in the abstract art.

All artworks by year

Charles Collett: I recently saw this marvellous painting in Madrid and was knocked out by it. I really liked its geometric form and the colours. It also reminded me of a ship leaning at low tide. Would like to have it in my collection!

Emilie from Home: Dat is de titel