Point, Line and Plane: Choreography from Kandinsky
Starting from an abstract painting by Kandinsky, groups translate its visual elements, points, straight and curved lines, planes of color and rhythm, into movement qualities and pathways through space. The result is a short choreographic piece that is presented and compared with the original painting.
How to play
- Project or hand out a copy of a work such as Composition VIII and explain how the painter linked shape, color and music (4 min).
- Teacher-led translation lab with music: the point as a short, explosive movement, the straight line as a direct path, the curve as a turn or spiral, and warm or cool colors as high or low energy (7 min).
- In groups of five, choose an area of the painting and design a 45- to 60-second piece with at least one point, one straight line, one curve and one change of energy; ribbons may be used to draw trails (10 min).
- Rehearse and perform: each group presents its piece and the audience tries to find the area of the painting it represents (7 min).
- Reflection: which elements were easiest to translate into the body and what movement adds to the artwork (2 min).
Rules
- Pathways are rehearsed at a walk first to avoid collisions between groups.
- Ribbons are used with 6 feet of clear space around.
- The audience watches each piece quietly and claps at the end.
- Everyone in the group suggests at least one movement.
Variations
Easier
Work with only one shape, the line or the point, and the teacher provides the structure of the piece.
Standard
A 45- to 60-second piece based on one area of the painting.
Harder
Groups interpret two contrasting areas and add a song of their choice that they justify in relation to the painting.
Adaptations
- Wheelchair user: their pathways in the chair become the main lines and curves of the piece.
- Visual impairment: get a raised version of the painting made with string and modeling clay, and a partner describes the work.
- Autism or shyness: take the role of director of the piece or perform in a duet within it.
Learning goals
- Relate visual art elements to movement qualities.
- Create a group choreography with expressive intent.
- Value the body as a means of artistic and cultural expression.
Equipment for a class of 25
- speaker: 1
- worksheets: 6
- ribbons: 12
Teacher tip
Teaming up with the art or art history teacher lets both classes work on the same painting. Use instrumental music without lyrics.
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