Variation after Improvisation 21 (Variation nach Improvisation 21) (plate, folio 13) from Klänge (Sounds)

1910–1911

The treatise “Concerning the Spiritual in Art”

The treatise defended and promoted abstract art and affirmed that all forms of art are equally capable of reaching spirituality; colour in a painting can be autonomous, apart from the depiction of an object. Kandinsky distinguished three kinds of painting: impressions, improvisations and compositions.

1910–1912

The Izdebsky Salons and the Knave of Diamonds

With the Neue Künstlervereinigung Kandinsky took part in two international Izdebsky Salons in Russian cities, from December 1910 to May 1911; in 1910 and 1912 he also exhibited with the Knave of Diamonds.

1911

The birth of the Blue Rider

After the earlier association dissolved Kandinsky formed the Blue Rider with August Macke, Franz Marc, Albert Bloch and Gabriele Münter. The group issued an almanac and held two exhibitions; the war ended further plans.

1911

His first solo exhibition

His first solo exhibition took place in the same years, when the Blue Rider was being born.

1911

Divorce from his first wife

Kandinsky was divorced from Anna Chemyakina; his relationship with Münter was nevertheless never formalized.

1914

The war: back to Russia via Switzerland and Sweden

The outbreak of World War I ended the Blue Rider's plans for further almanacs and exhibitions and sent Kandinsky back to Russia via Switzerland and Sweden; he returned to Moscow in 1914.