What were the major phases in the evolution of Kazimir Malevich's work ?

Kazimir Malevich, a Russian avant-garde artist and a key figure in the development of abstract art, went through several major phases in the evolution of his work. His artistic career spanned from the late 19th century to the early 20th century, and his evolution can be broadly categorized into the following phases:

1.Impressionist and Symbolist Period (c. 1904-1910):

Malevich began his artistic career with influences from Impressionism and Symbolism. During this period, he created paintings with a strong emphasis on color, light, and symbolism. His works reflected the influence of the Russian art scene and European modernist movements of the time.

2.Cubist and Futurist Phase (c. 1911-1915):

Malevich embraced Cubism and Futurism, movements that were gaining popularity in Europe. His works from this period show geometric forms, fragmentation of space, and dynamic compositions. He was also associated with the Russian avant-garde movement known as Rayonism, which he co-founded in 1912.

3.Suprematist Period (c. 1915-1920):

Malevich's most significant and revolutionary phase was the development of Suprematism. In 1915, he presented his famous painting "Black Square" and introduced the concept of non-representational art that aimed to express the "supremacy of pure feeling" over the depiction of objects. Basic geometric shapes, particularly squares and rectangles, became central elements in his work during this period.

4.Architectonics and Transition to Figurative Art (c. 1920-1928):

After the Russian Revolution of 1917 and during the early years of Soviet rule, Malevich continued to explore geometric abstraction. He also delved into architectural designs and theories, developing ideas for the integration of art and architecture. However, political shifts in the Soviet Union led to a crackdown on avant-garde art, and Malevich gradually transitioned back to more figurative and representational styles.

5.Return to Figurative Art (c. 1928-1935):

Facing increased scrutiny from Soviet authorities, Malevich shifted away from abstraction and returned to more traditional and figurative styles. This period is characterized by depictions of peasants, landscapes, and genre scenes. The works from this phase are in stark contrast to his earlier radical abstract compositions.

Kazimir Malevich's innovative contributions to Suprematism had a profound impact on the course of modern art. Despite the challenges he faced during the Soviet era, his legacy as a pioneer of abstract art and a visionary thinker remains significant in the history of 20th-century art.