“Colourful Shapes,” created by August Macke in 1913, is a notable example of the Orphism art movement. The abstract artwork measures 53.1 x 38.5 cm, demonstrating Macke’s exploration of vibrant geometric forms and chromatic contrasts.
The artwork is an intricate composition of various rectangles and polygons, interwoven with bold and muted hues. Dominant colors include greens, reds, and blacks, punctuated by flickers of orange, blue, and white. These shapes are layered and juxtaposed in a manner that evokes a sense of rhythm and movement, characteristic of Orphism’s interest in the harmony of color. The painting’s non-representational nature compels viewers to engage with it purely through its vivid color and dynamic design, epitomizing the abstract genre.
