Kazimir Malevich's 'Black Square' and Suprematism

Kazimir Malevich's 'Black Square' debuted in 1915, sparking controversy for its simplicity. Despite critiques, the painting's complexity lies in its imperfect form and layered history. Malevich's journey through various art styles led to Suprematism, emphasizing pure feeling over objects. His radical ideas faced opposition under Soviet rule, forcing him to adapt while retaining his core beliefs.

What was the reaction of some attendees to Malevich's 'Black Square' at the 1915 exhibition?

• They praised its complexity.

• They were indifferent to it.

• They criticized its simplicity.

• They believed it was a masterpiece.

What does a closer examination of 'Black Square' reveal about its form?

• It is perfectly black and square.

• It is a perfect circle.

• It has uneven sides and is off-center.

• It is a depiction of a landscape.

Which artistic style did Malevich develop that focused on pure feeling?

• Impressionism

• Cubism

• Suprematism

• Realism

What was Malevich's view on abstract art?

• He found it too simplistic.

• He believed it was the ultimate form of art.

• He thought it was still tied to real-world objects.

• He considered it too complex.

What did Malevich believe was the only truly new form of art?

• Non-representational art

• Cubism

• Realism

• Impressionism

How did Malevich's art change after his arrest by Soviet authorities?

• He focused on landscapes.

• He returned to figuration.

• He stopped painting altogether.

• He continued with Suprematism.

What was the political climate's impact on Malevich's art during Stalin's rise to power?

• It encouraged more avant-garde art.

• It had no impact on his work.

• It forced him to conform to Socialist Realism.

• It led to more abstract art.

What happened to Malevich's figures in his later paintings?

• They lost their arms and faces.

• They were depicted in vibrant colors.

• They were shown in crowded spaces.

• They became more detailed.

What subtle element of Suprematism did Malevich include in his self-portrait?

• A depiction of a desert.

• A tiny black square in the corner.

• Bright, abstract colors.

• A large black square in the center.

What did Malevich's 'Black Square' symbolize in the context of his life and work?

• A refuge of pure feeling beyond objects.

• A return to traditional art forms.

• A depiction of Soviet leaders.

• A focus on everyday life.