Кандинский was a pioneering Russian painter and art theorist, known for his role in the development of abstract art. Born in 1866, he initially studied law and economics before turning to painting. His work emphasized the emotional power of color and form, moving away from representational art. In 1910, Кандинский published his influential book, "On the Spiritual in Art," where he argued that art should express the artist's inner feelings. He was a key figure in the Bauhaus movement and co-founded the Blue Rider group, which sought to explore new artistic expressions.