Hilma af Klint’s Inaugural Exhibition of Botanical Illustrations

On January 7, 1917, Hilma af Klint contemplated a significant challenge: encapsulating the essence of nature’s plant life. This inquiry signified a transformation in her artistic path, shifting from pure abstraction to botanical depiction. These detailed drawings embody her profound bond with Sweden’s natural environment.

Now featured in “Hilma af Klint: What Stands Behind the Flowers” at MoMA, New York, the exhibition showcases af Klint’s “Nature Studies” collection. Encompassing 46 drawings from 1919-1920, it depicts sunflowers, poppies, and mushrooms, representing her journey from abstraction to realism. Alongside the botanical artworks are mysterious diagrams, providing insight into what she referred to as “what stands behind the flowers.”

Af Klint’s previous endeavor, “The Atom Series” (1917), played a role in this evolution. It examined atomic structure through geometric shapes, suggesting her conviction in nature’s significant influence on humanity. “Nature Studies,” while more lifelike, still preserves a gentle touch with watercolors. Elaborate representations, such as those of lilacs and mushrooms, are accompanied by diagrams that unveil deeper meanings.

The exhibition offers a nostalgic look at Swedish flora through the lens of a trailblazing artist, enhanced by her watercolor landscapes and personal notebooks. “What Stands Behind the Flowers,” available until September 27, 2025, enchants with its distinctive viewpoint from af Klint’s era. Her work continues to be captivating today, impacting the art world and reaffirming her statements on nature’s charm.