Wassily Kandinsky (1866–1944) was a Russian painter and art theorist, often credited as one of the pioneers of abstract art. Born in Moscow, Kandinsky initially pursued a career in law and economics but later decided to follow his passion for art. He moved to Munich and enrolled in art school, where he became a prominent figure in the avant-garde art scene. Kandinsky is best known for his move towards abstraction, breaking away from representational art to explore the expressive and emotional potential of color, form, and line. He believed that art should evoke emotions and spiritual experiences rather than merely depict the physical world. Kandinsky's work is characterized by vibrant colors, dynamic shapes, and a strong emphasis on the spiritual and mystical aspects of art.

In 1911, Kandinsky co-founded the influential art movement known as Der Blaue Reiter (The Blue Rider) along with fellow artist Franz Marc. The movement aimed to explore the spiritual dimension of art and its ability to transcend cultural and artistic boundaries. Throughout his career, Kandinsky wrote extensively on art theory. His book "Concerning the Spiritual in Art" (1911) is a seminal work in which he articulated his ideas about the connections between art, spirituality, and the human psyche. He developed a theory of synesthesia, suggesting that colors and shapes could evoke specific emotional and spiritual responses.

Kandinsky's artistic style evolved over the years, moving from early representational works to complete abstraction. His paintings, such as "Composition VII" and "On White II," showcase his mastery of abstract expressionism and his unique ability to convey emotions through non-representational means. Wassily Kandinsky's contributions to modern art have left a lasting impact, influencing subsequent generations of artists and contributing to the development of abstract art as a significant movement in the 20th century.