Windows Open Simultaneously : First Part, Second Motif
Robert Delaunay - 1912, Oil on canvas 46 x 37.5 cm.
Inspired by the effect of light falling on window planes, the window series reveals Delaunay's interest in light and colour. He studied light refraction in prisms and reflection. He used the notion of 'simultaneous contrast' in which the perception of two adjacent colours creates a third. For Delaunay light was the key to understanding the universe, like the painter Kandinsky with whom he was in contact with at this present time.
Delaunay associated art with music, Isolating colours in the same way a composer would musical notes. This style of painting took the name of Orphism after, the name of the Greek musician Orpheus. Like the cubist's Delaunay, had many interests from art critics and writers. Apollinaire was an enthusiastic supporter and wrote many poems about his work.