Final answer:
The influence of photography on modernism, as seen in the works of Wassily Kandinsky, Piet Mondrian, and Kazimir Malevich, was transformative. It allowed a new approach to art that combined unique uses of color with fresh perspectives on reality, and it introduced new mediums like photomontage and Photorealism.
Step-by-step explanation:
Artists like Wassily Kandinsky, Piet Mondrian, and Kazimir Malevich believed in redefining art as the arrangement of pure color, which meant they viewed color as a way to influence the soul directly. With the advent of photography and its evolution as a unique art form, the use of photography had a significant role in the modernist movement. Notably, the likes of Alfred Stieglitz argued for the distinction of photography by capturing moments that showed all of the elements and principles of art, thus transforming modernist perspectives. Additionally, movements like Dadaism introduced the use of photomontage which further expanded on the idea of combining art with everyday cultural materials, moving away from traditional paint and canvas. Furthermore, Photorealists acknowledged their dependence on photographic images as the basis for creating exceptionally realistic paintings, which underscored the interplay of light and color in a way that paid homage to the realistic aspects of photography while still emphasizing artistic craft.
Thus, the impact of photography on modernism can be seen as transformative. It allowed artists to explore new methods and mediums, challenged conventional definitions of art, and introduced new ways for viewers to engage with and interpret artwork. This transformation is reflected in the way artists approached the depiction of reality, using color and form in innovative ways, and how they represented and critiqued cultural contexts and societal conventions.