Group IX,SUW No. 12, The Swan No. 12 (1915)
'Group IX/SUW No. 12, The Swan No. 12' is a remarkable painting by Hilma af Klint from 1915, celebrated for its visionary and abstract style. As part of her 'The Paintings for the Temple' series, this piece reflects her profound interest in spirituality and mysticism. Af Klint's work predates many established abstract art movements, making her a seminal figure in the art world. The use of vibrant colors and symbolic forms expresses a deep philosophical inquiry into the nature of existence and the interconnectedness of all beings.
Year 1915
About the Artwork
Hilma af Klint, working ahead of her time, created 'Group IX/SUW No. 12, The Swan No. 12' in 1915 as a part of her larger series 'The Paintings for the Temple.' Inspired by her spiritual beliefs and involvement with theosophy, she created these pieces with the intention of expressing divine ideas through her art. The series serves as a rich tapestry of colors and forms, representing her exploration of the unknown and the invisible forces that connect all life. Despite not being widely recognized during her lifetime, her pioneering efforts have gained significant appreciation in contemporary art discourse, highlighting her role as a trailblazer in abstract art.
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Did You Know
Hilma af Klint is considered one of the pioneers of abstract art, having created her visionary works well before the first recognized abstract art movement emerged in the early 20th century.
Af Klint was deeply influenced by spiritualism and theosophy, which guided her art-making process and led her to explore themes of mysticism and the unseen connections between all life forms.
Although Hilma af Klint’s work was largely overlooked during her lifetime, a resurgence of interest in her art has occurred since the 21st century, with exhibitions showcasing her contributions to abstract art and challenging traditional narratives in art history.
