Compare and contrast Non-Objective Painting No. 80 (Black on Black) by Alexandr Rodchenko to Black Square by Kazimir Malevich – An ‘Isms’ Overview

The early 20th century witnessed a profound shift in the art world, marked by the emergence of abstract art and the exploration of non-representational forms. Alexandr Rodchenko and Kazimir Malevich, two prominent figures in the Russian avant-garde movement, played pivotal roles in this transformative period. This analysis aims to compare and contrast Rodchenko’s “Non-Objective Painting No. 80 (Black on Black)” (1918) and Malevich’s “Black Square” (1913), examining their artistic concepts, aesthetic qualities, and their impact on the development of abstract art.

“Non-Objective Painting No. 80 (Black on Black)” and “Black Square” epitomize the artists’ shared interest in breaking away from traditional representational art. Both paintings embody the concepts of non-objectivity and pure abstraction, rejecting the need for recognizable subject matter. However, the two artworks differ in their approaches to achieving this goal.

“Non-Objective Painting No. 80 (Black on Black)”:Rodchenko’s composition presents a dynamic interplay between a black square and a black background. Through the strategic use of texture and varying shades of black, Rodchenko explores the tension between figure and ground, creating a visually engaging experience. The work exudes a sense of movement and energy, as if the black square is in a state of constant flux.

“Black Square”: In contrast, Malevich’s “Black Square” presents a stark, monolithic black square on a white canvas. The work represents a radical departure from traditional art, aiming to transcend the physical world and reach a higher level of pure artistic expression. Malevich viewed the black square as a symbol of the “zero degree” of painting, a fundamental rejection of representation and the beginning of a new artistic era.

Both paintings employ black as the dominant colour, yet their aesthetic qualities differ significantly, resulting in distinct visual experiences.

“Non-Objective Painting No. 80 (Black on Black)”: Rodchenko’s use of multiple shades of black, coupled with the incorporation of texture, creates depth and visual complexity. The interplay between the black square and the background generates a sense of movement, inviting the viewer’s gaze to traverse the composition. This multifaceted exploration of black results in a rich, nuanced aesthetic experience.

“Black Square”: Malevich’s “Black Square,” on the other hand, offers a stark and simplified aesthetic. The single black square, placed against a white background, epitomizes the reduction of artistic elements to their essential forms. The work’s minimalist composition and monochromatic palette create a sense of starkness and emptiness, evoking a contemplative response from the viewer.

Both Rodchenko’s “Non-Objective Painting No. 80 (Black on Black)” and Malevich’s “Black Square” played crucial roles in the development of abstract art and the broader avant-garde movement.

Rodchenko’s painting exemplifies his belief in the power of abstract forms to convey emotion and create visual impact. His experimentation with texture and movement paved the way for future artists to explore the dynamic potential of abstract compositions.

Malevich’s “Black Square” is often regarded as a seminal work that marked the birth of Suprematism, a movement centred around pure geometric forms. The painting challenged traditional notions of art and inspired artists to embrace abstraction and reject representational constraints.

In summary, Rodchenko’s “Non-Objective Painting No. 80 (Black on Black)” and Malevich’s “Black Square” represent pivotal moments in the history of abstract art. While both paintings share a commitment to non-representational forms, they differ in their approach and aesthetic qualities. Rodchenko’s work embraces texture, movement, and varying shades of black, while Malevich’s painting focuses on stark simplicity and reduction to essential forms. Both artists’ contributions had a lasting impact on the development of abstract art, inspiring future generations of artists to explore the boundaries of artistic expression.