Kandinsky (1866-1944) was a Russian-born painter and pioneer of abstraction. He was an Expressionist believing in the power of strong colors to inspire emotions. This piece represents his more realistic work. It was his first done with a palette knife. Here we see the beginning of his moving from details to shapes of color. This exploration would lead to his later works of shapes and line that are reminiscent of one-dimensional mobiles. This work is at the Musse National d’Art Moderne, part of the Pompidou in Paris.
Autumn in Bavaria could have been painted in Denver on October 6, 2025. As I write now, the trees are just beginning to change. Some leaves are turning against much remaining green.
This painting with its creative take on a path to somewhere might be a reminder to each of us to keep walking. It can be a reminder to follow the course of nature as in every year; to walk closely through this season together in the comfort of creation and its ancient and to date resilient cycle.
Kandinsky may have actually painted hope in matching the blurry perspective we may be feeling now. May we faithfully remember that seasons come and go and God is in the midst of the beauty and assurance of their movement. Thanks be to God.