Final answer:
Wassily Kandinsky, an influential abstract artist, died in 1944. He is well-known for his theories on the spiritual impact of color in art and for his works like 'Composition VII' and 'Improvisation 27'. His art was significant in the development of modern abstract expressionism.
Step-by-step explanation:
Wassily Kandinsky, a pioneer of abstract art, passed away in 1944. He was a key figure in the evolution of modern art, originally from Moscow and was initially involved in legal studies before his interest in the arts took precedence. Kandinsky's engagement with color and its emotional impacts transpired into his belief that color could directly influence the soul. His famed quote, "Colour is the keyboard, the eyes are the hammers, the soul is the piano with many strings. The artist is the hand which plays, touching one key or another, causing vibrations in the soul." epitomizes this. Throughout his career, Kandinsky faced both war and political upheaval, ultimately leading to a significant amount of his art being destroyed, deemed as 'degenerate art' by the Nazis. Despite such challenges, Kandinsky's work, including pieces like Composition VII and Improvisation 27, have left a monumental impact on the art world.