“The earliest paintings (Piet Mondrian) that show an inkling of the abstraction to come are a series of canvases from 1905 to 1908, which depict dim scenes of indistinct trees and houses with reflections in still water. Although the end result leads the viewer to begin emphasizing the forms over the content, these paintings are still firmly rooted in nature, and it is only the knowledge of Mondrian's later achievements that leads one to search for the roots of his future abstraction in these works.”
(Ref. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Piet_Mondrian ; December 28, 2012)

Mondrian’s effort to fundamental grammar of form and color led to abstractions. His earlier composition (plate 10A-10B) clearly shows his approach towards minimalist approach ultimately led to ‘straight line’ and ‘primary colors’, which he called ‘Pure Plastic Art’. The ‘purity’ of form and color’ of Mondrian’s spiritual quest led to finding the inner beauty and aesthetics through the ‘minimum and simplicity’. His philosophy has influenced the Industrial Design applications in term of form and color. His tree series (plate 11A-11D) followed by cityscape eventually found the true spirit of minimum yet aesthetically appalling in 2-D compositions. In his earlier compositions the appearance of curve lines and forms have gradually minimized in much straighter lines. Thus he found the essence of minimalism, which has inspired and influenced the field of Industrial Design enormously.

Plates12 Piet Mondrian’s ‘Pure Plastic Art’