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The geometric line is an invisible thing. It is the track made by the moving point; that is, its product. It is created by movement - specifically through the destruction of the intense self-contained repose of the point. Here, the leap out of the static to the dynamic occurs. [:] The forces coming from without which transform the point into a line, can be very diverse. The variation in lines depends upon the number of these forces and upon their combinations.

Wassily Kandinsky#7

CompositionMovement

About this quote

What does it mean?
Kandinsky describes how a geometric line is formed by a moving point and how this transition creates dynamic forces.
In plain terms
A line is created when a point moves, changing from static to dynamic through that movement.
What can you take from it?
Lines represent movement and energy resulting from a point in motion.

Where it applies

  • teaching drawing
  • designing layouts
  • analyzing composition

Putting it to work

  • show movement in line
  • balance tension in work
  • study abstract elements

Questions to consider

  • How does movement create visual energy?
  • What do lines communicate beyond shape?

Another view

Viewers may not consciously perceive the physics behind a line's creation.

More from Wassily Kandinsky

  1. The geometric point is an invisible thing. Therefore, it must be defined as an incorporeal thing. Considered in terms of substance, it equals zero. [:] Thus we…

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  2. In this painting, I was in fact in quest for a certain hour, which was and which remains always the most beautiful hour of the day in Moscow. The sun is alread…

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  3. The world is full of resonances. It constitutes a cosmos of things exerting a spiritual action. The dead matter is a living spirit.

    Permalink to quote #9

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