This book offers insight into how Gerard Wagner developed his work on the basis of Rudolf Steiner's indications for painting. Fundamental color experiments illustrate his methodical approach, while examples of his late work show the living, etheric quality he achieved in his watercolor painting. In appreciation of Rudolf Steiner's contribution toward the evolution of painting, Wagner wrote the following:
"Whoever attempts to tread this path can come to the conviction that the indications of Rudolf Steiner, if they are sufficiently penetrated and experienced, can lead one to grasp the creative formative forces of color and to create within this life element without harming it. By giving us such pictures of life shaped by color, Rudolf Steiner has set goals for a far future of painting."
All of Rudolf Steiner's training sketches for painters (pastel drawings and watercolors) are included in the book, as well as the first English translation of the summaries by Albert Steffen of Rudolf Steiner's lectures on color.