Watch: Hilma Af Klint – Malta’s Unseen Art Pioneer

Standing in the bustling Republic Street of Valletta, it’s hard to imagine that this UNESCO World Heritage site was once home to a woman who would revolutionize the art world. Yet, it was here that Hilma Af Klint, the Swedish pioneer of abstract art, spent a significant part of her life. Now, the ARTE documentary ‘Hilma Af Klint: A Pioneer of Abstraction’ is bringing her groundbreaking work back into the spotlight.

Born in 1862 in Stockholm, Af Klint was a woman ahead of her time. She was a member of the spiritualist group ‘The Five’, who believed in communicating with spirits through automatic writing and drawing. It was during these séances that Af Klint began to create abstract art, decades before it became widely accepted.

Her work, however, remained largely unknown until 1986 when it was discovered by chance in a Stockholm apartment. Since then, her paintings have been exhibited in major museums worldwide, including the Guggenheim in New York and the Serpentine Gallery in London. Now, thanks to ARTE, her story is being told in a captivating documentary.

The documentary, directed by Åsa Mossberg, delves into Af Klint’s life and work. It explores how her spiritual beliefs influenced her art, leading her to create non-representational, geometric forms that predated the abstract movement by nearly 20 years. The film also highlights the challenges she faced as a woman artist in the early 20th century.

Mossberg’s film is not just a tribute to Af Klint’s artistic prowess but also a testament to her courage. It underscores how one woman’s vision, even in the face of adversity, can shape the course of art history.

You can watch ‘Hilma Af Klint: A Pioneer of Abstraction’ on the ARTE website or through their app. It’s a must-watch for art enthusiasts and anyone interested in the untold stories of women who dared to challenge the status quo.

While Af Klint’s time in Malta was brief, it played a significant role in her life. She moved to Valletta in 1906 with her sister, Anna, seeking a warmer climate due to Anna’s health. It was during this period that Af Klint created some of her most notable works, including the ‘Paintings for the Temple’ series.

Today, Malta offers a unique opportunity to explore Af Klint’s connection to the island. The National Museum of Fine Arts in Valletta houses a collection of her works, providing a tangible link to this pioneering artist. the documentary serves as a reminder of the rich artistic heritage that exists beyond our immediate awareness.