The meaning of Supremus No. 55 by Kazimir Malevich

Supremus No. 55, painted by Kazimir Malevich in 1916, holds immense significance in the realm of abstract art. The painting is a pure manifestation of Malevich's artistic philosophy, encapsulating the essence of Suprematism and contributing to the shifting paradigms of artistic expression during the early 20th century.At first glance, Supremus No. 55 may seem like a bold composition of geometric shapes, mostly square and rectangular forms positioned in unconventional angles. The colors used are minimalistic, dominated by black, white, and shades of gray. This straightforward interpretation leads us into the realm of abstraction, where the artist aims to avoid any association with the physical world or objects, focusing solely on the formal elements of art.The painting can be seen as a representation of Malevich's unwavering pursuit of pure artistic autonomy. It challenges traditional notions of art as a mere imitation of reality or an outlet for personal expression. Instead, Malevich embraces the idea of painting as an autonomous entity, removed from the constraints of representation or any external influence. In the void of recognizable forms, he gives birth to a unique visual language intended to provoke emotions and intellectual engagement.However, beyond this typical interpretation lies a fascinating and unexpected perspective on Supremus No. 55. Rather than seeing the painting as a complete departure from reality, we can delve into the realm of psychology to explore its potential subconscious symbolism. What if Malevich, consciously or not, tapped into archetypal imagery and the collective unconscious, giving birth to a painting that communicates on a deeper level?In this alternative interpretation, the squares and rectangles in Supremus No. 55 can be seen as metaphors for human existence and the different facets of our lives. Each shape represents an aspect of our existence, intersecting and overlapping, reflecting the complex and multifaceted nature of being. The contrasting black and white colors symbolize the duality and balance between opposing forces that shape our lives; light and dark, good and evil, creation and destruction.The unconventional angles at which the shapes are positioned suggest a sense of movement and dynamism, reminding us that life is constantly in flux, never static or predictable. The seemingly arbitrary arrangement of forms also hints at the randomness and unpredictability of existence, reflecting the chaotic nature of the world we inhabit.By considering this unexpected perspective, the painting transcends its initial abstract qualities and becomes a metaphorical representation of the human condition. Malevich's exploration of Suprematism may have unintentionally tapped into a universal language, speaking to the deeper aspects of our psyche.In conclusion, Supremus No. 55 is a masterpiece of abstract art, serving as a testament to Malevich's artistic philosophy and the revolutionary ideas that emerged during the early 20th century. While its initial interpretation leads us into the realm of pure abstraction, delving deeper into the painting reveals a potential subconscious symbolism that reflects the intricate complexities of human existence. By embracing an unexpected perspective, we gain a broader and more profound understanding of this iconic artwork.