Area Broken by Perpendiculars

“Area Broken by Perpendiculars” (ca. 1934) by Joseph Schillinger
is an abstract geometric composition characterized by vibrant colors, intersecting shapes, and sharp angles. The painting features overlapping circles, triangles, and rectangles in shades of red, pink, orange, blue, green, and white. The artwork’s title refers to how the geometric areas are divided by perpendicular lines, creating a visually dynamic interplay of forms and colors. The sharp, angular shapes are balanced by the softer, curved lines of the circles, creating tension and harmony within the composition.

Joseph Schillinger (1895–1943) was a Ukrainian-born American artist, composer, and theorist known for developing the Schillinger System of Musical Composition, a mathematical approach to music that he applied to visual art as well. Schillinger was deeply influenced by modernist movements, particularly Constructivism and Cubism, which emphasized the use of geometric forms and abstraction. Created in the early 1930s, “Area Broken by Perpendiculars” reflects the artist’s interest in mathematical precision and the relationship between art, science, and mathematics. The geometric abstraction in Schillinger’s work connects to the broader developments of the time, when artists were seeking new ways to explore form, color, and composition through non-representational art.

In “Area Broken by Perpendiculars”, Schillinger employs geometric abstraction with a focus on symmetry, balance, and contrast. The artwork’s structured layout features sharp, angular shapes—triangles and rectangles—set against the softer, curved lines of circles. The use of perpendicular lines divides the composition into distinct areas, each filled with bold colors that contrast and complement each other. Schillinger’s color palette is both vibrant and deliberate, using combinations of warm reds, pinks, and oranges alongside cooler blues and greens to create balance. The sharpness of the lines and shapes reflects Schillinger’s interest in precision and order, likely influenced by his background in mathematics and his desire to explore patterns in both art and music.

Schillinger’s “Area Broken by Perpendiculars” can be interpreted as an exploration of order and fragmentation. The perpendicular lines, which divide the areas of color, suggest both unity and disruption—symbolizing the relationship between structure and chaos. The geometric forms, broken into precise sections, may also reflect Schillinger’s broader theories about the connections between art, mathematics, and music, where form and structure can be broken down and reassembled in new, harmonious ways. The interplay of color and shape evokes a sense of rhythm and movement, making the painting feel dynamic despite its structured layout, hinting at Schillinger’s interest in rhythm and patterns from his musical theories.

Joseph Schillinger’s work, though not as widely known as some of his contemporaries, remains significant for its interdisciplinary approach, blending art, music, and mathematics. “Area Broken by Perpendiculars” is a prime example of his unique fusion of these elements, and his exploration of geometric abstraction predates and aligns with later developments in abstract and minimalist art. His influence is particularly noted in the field of music composition, but his visual art, including this piece, contributed to the intellectual and aesthetic discussions of the 1930s regarding how mathematical principles could be applied to art. For contemporary audiences, the work remains relevant for its clean lines, bold colors, and modernist approach, appealing to those interested in abstraction and the mathematical basis of aesthetics.

Introduce modernist sophistication to your space with Joseph Schillinger’s “Area Broken by Perpendiculars” (ca. 1934), a geometric masterpiece that merges art, mathematics, and vibrant color. This high-quality gallery-wrapped canvas print brings Schillinger’s bold, dynamic forms into your home, offering a perfect balance of sharp angles and soft curves. Available in multiple sizes, this canvas will look as tight and flat as the day it was made, supported by a solid frame that prevents warping over time. Choose between walnut and black frame options to complement your decor. Whether for your living room, office, or creative studio, this artwork’s striking abstraction will add intellectual depth and visual intrigue to any space.