Wassily Kandinsky (1866-1944), a pioneering Russian abstract painter, died on December 14, 1944, at the age of 77. Kandinsky's artistry marked a radical departure from tradition in his efforts to create spiritual expression within the limits of abstract painting. During his lifetime, his work was showcased both in solo exhibitions and alongside other modernist painters. Kandinsky was born in Moscow, Russia, to a merchant family. He studied law at the University of Moscow before shifting to art. At the age of 30, he moved to Munich to pursue painting and enrolled at the Academy of Fine Arts. It was in Munich where he was exposed to Impressionism and Expressionism, which had a major effect on his practice. Whilst in Munich, Kandinsky went on to co-found Der Blaue Reiter, a collective dedicated to modern art. Steadfast in his goals, Kandinsky aimed to pursue his love for fine art and abstractionism, honing his style throughout his lifetime. He is oft considered a pioneer in his definition of abstract art and his influence echoed across Europe, then and now. Kandinsky's work can now be seen in many of the world's most famous contemporary art galleries, and continues to inspire artists from all walks of life.