ipiet mondrian eu

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works of the same period

1

1905-06

2

1909

3

4

1912

5

1913

6

1913

7

1915

8

1920

9

1930

10

1930

11

1932

12

1933

On observing these paintings in sequential order we see a predominantly horizontal space evoked by the boundless natural landscape (1 and 2) opposed to the measurable vertical development of human constructions, that is to say, artificial additions to nature (3), merging into a synthesis metaphorically expressed by the shape of a tree (4).

The relationship between horizontal and vertical which we see expressed in a rather univocal and static way in the naturalistic tree ( 4), multiplies (5) and takes on ever changing combinations during the Cubist phase (6).

The changeable relationships between opposite drives find a more balanced and lasting situation in a square which is namely an equivalence of horizontal and vertical (7).

The juxtaposition that produces open and unstable situations elsewhere is transformed into interpenetration that generates harmony and permanence in that square.

One or more square proportions were to inform nearly all the works produced by Mondrian after 1920 (8, 9, 10, 11,12).
Between 1920 and 1933 the square form is a constant feature but in a state of continuous evolution.
The artist does not see the square as a closed and pre-established geometric shape but rather as the given moment in
which the relationship between opposite drives attains for a moment a certain balance.
Neoplastic squares are never really such because it is the eye rather than mathematics that decides on their proportions.
Every canvas presents different squares that serve, however, to meet the need for equilibrium in that particular composition.

Mondrian endeavors in these paintings to present space poised in unstable equilibrium between a constant parameter (the square proportion) and a variable set of measurements and/or colors.
We are constantly stimulated by the unforeseeable flow of existence in everyday life and open up to innovation on the one hand while seeking to maintain the integrity of our established equilibriums on the other.
Every Neoplastic composition expresses this dialectic between the changing aspects of life and the human need to stabilize them and find something of greater constancy and duration.