What inspired the abstract, geometric paintings of Piet Mondrian?

Piet Mondrian was a Dutch painter who is best known for his contributions to the development of abstract art. He was one of the pioneers of the De Stijl movement, which aimed to create a universal visual language that could be used to express the modern world. The abstract, geometric paintings for which Mondrian is best known were inspired by a variety of sources, including his interest in theosophy, the Dutch landscape, and the modern city.

Mondrian's interest in theosophy, a spiritual movement that sought to discover the hidden order underlying the universe, led him to explore the relationship between art and spirituality. He believed that abstract art had the potential to reveal the underlying harmony and order of the universe, and that it could serve as a means of achieving spiritual enlightenment. This belief is reflected in his paintings, which often feature simple geometric shapes arranged in a precise, balanced composition.

Another major influence on Mondrian's work was the Dutch landscape, which he saw as a reflection of the underlying order of the universe. He was particularly drawn to the flat, expansive vistas of the Dutch polder landscape, which he represented in his paintings using a grid of horizontal and vertical lines. This grid became a defining feature of Mondrian's work, and he used it to create a sense of order and structure in his paintings.

Finally, Mondrian was also influenced by the modern city, with its sleek, industrial aesthetic and emphasis on function and efficiency. He saw the modern city as a reflection of the new, dynamic world that was emerging in the early 20th century, and he sought to capture this sense of energy and movement in his paintings. He used bold, primary colors and simple geometric shapes to create a sense of rhythm and movement in his work, reflecting the dynamic energy of the modern city.