Suprematism: The Supremacy of Pure Feeling
Founded by Kazimir Malevich in 1913, Suprematism was an art movement focused on fundamental geometric forms, such as circles, squares, lines, and rectangles, painted in a limited range of colors. It was one of the most radical developments in abstract art.
The Philosophy of Zero Point
Malevich sought to reach the “zero point” of painting—the moment where art is stripped of all representation of the physical world. He believed that by removing “objects,” art could achieve the “supremacy of pure artistic feeling.” His Black Square (1915) remains one of the most provocative works in history, representing a total break from traditional art.
Visual Characteristics
- Non-Objectivity: Total absence of recognizable subjects.
- Floating Forms: Shapes often appear to be suspended in a white, infinite space, suggesting a spiritual or cosmic dimension.
- Limited Palette: Heavy reliance on primary colors, black, and white.
Legacy
Suprematism influenced the development of abstract art throughout Europe and paved the way for movements like Minimalism and Hard-edge painting.