Philosophical Interest in Works of Art: Exploring the Intersection of Art and Theosophy

The question of which works of art possess a philosophic interest often brings to mind masterpieces that transcend the mere visual or emotional appeal, delving deeper into the essence of existence, knowledge, and the universe. Notably, one artist who stands out in this regard is Piet Mondrian, a central figure in the development of abstract art, deeply influenced by theosophy and other philosophical concepts.

Abstract Art and Theosophy: A Philosophical Journey

Theosophy, a philosophy based on a spiritual understanding of the natural world and beyond, played a significant role in shaping the works of prominent artists such as Mondrian, Wassily Kandinsky, Frantisek Kupka, and Kazimir Malevich. These artists were inspired by theosophical principles, which emphasized the importance of understanding cosmical principles that govern our reality.

Malevich, particularly, took the influence of these philosophical ideas further with his iconic piece, The Black Square. This minimalist work represents a journey towards the ultimate simplification of art, emphasizing the end and the beginning of artistic expression. Malevich believed, "It was the end of every attempt to feebly imitate the world of nature. There would be no copying anymore, no more representation. It would be the beginning of an art which would be entirely self-sustaining."

Abstract Art and the Quest for Essence

Abstract art can be seen as a visual language that aims to capture the essence of things. Unlike representational art, which seeks to depict reality directly, abstract art delves into the underlying principles and structures that govern the universe. The line, contour, and color serve as the building blocks of this language, allowing artists to explore fundamental concepts and express deep philosophical ideas.

The Theosophical Influence

Theosophy, in particular, provided significant steps for these artists to detach art from the tangible world and value it for its intrinsic qualities rather than its representational aspects. Concepts such as the imperceptible spiritual realms and the underlying order of the cosmos were central to theosophical thought, and these ideas profoundly affected artists like Mondrian and Kandinsky.

Exploring Concepts Through Art

Alongside the works of classical abstract artists, there are contemporary pieces that similarly aim to explore philosophical concepts through art. For instance, my own work, Contemporary Art Originals Collec Valued at 1 Million by HyperCubism, delves into the realms of philosophical logic, semantics, metaphysics, and the ideal life—an intellectual one. These pieces are creative explorations of complex ideas, designed to provoke thought and insight.

One of my conceptual art pieces, titled What I Call Fermat, is a prime example of this exploration. Other works such as the 'God Trap' and a yellow painting with black writing defending perpetual motion also illustrate the journey towards expressing deep philosophical ideas through abstract imagery.

Recommended Works and Resources

For those interested in exploring more works that embody philosophical art and theosophy, I recommend books and resources that offer a broader perspective. My own book, The Book of Uniques: Concept Cards and Other Mysteries From the Mind of Nathan Coppedge, serves as an introduction to a wide range of visual representations, including original works. Other authors have also published books dedicated to conceptual art, such as The Average Expensive Art Book on Conceptual Art, which includes various other seminal works in the field.

Additionally, books by other authors on conceptual art offer valuable insights, and I recommend exploring these resources to gain a deeper understanding of the intersection between art and philosophy. Some notable artists, such as Juan Gris, Chagall, M.C. Escher, and Picabia, have contributed significantly to the field of abstraction and imagination, providing unique perspectives on the relationship between art and philosophy.

By embracing the philosophic interest in works of art, we can gain a more profound appreciation for the symbolic and conceptual layers that often underlie seemingly simple or abstract forms. This exploration is not only enriching for the artist but also for the viewer, fostering a deeper connection with the works of art and the profound ideas they embody.