Piet Mondrian’s Composition A, 1920 is an early example of his journey into pure geometric abstraction. This painting marries the principles of De Stijl with a simple and stark palette comprised only of primary colors, black and gray. This painting represents Mondrian’s commitment to relational opposites, asymmetry, and a restricted range of colors – manifesting the energetic forces that govern existence.
The interaction between the bold lines, active colors and dynamic forms are further emphasized by their positioning on the canvas – all working together to create a harmonious balance between stillness and tension. Through Composition A – Piet Mondrian achieved a perfect confluence of dynamism and serenity.
After creating Composition A, Mondrian continued experimenting with geometric abstraction through works like Broadway Boogie Woogie – 1942-43. The familiar composition elements from Composition A experienced a notable transformation here – characterized by generous doses of color, denser blocks of form and perhaps most notably, an uplifting spirit about it. All these structural elements signify both balance and contradictory forces at work in harmony.
