Beyond the Visible: Hilma af Klint

Beyond the Visible: Hilma af Klint is a 2019 biographical documentary, exploring the life, art, and unacknowledged legacy of the Swedish artist, Hilma af Klint. Directed by Halina Dyrschka, this film features insightful contributions from artists, historians, and art critics including Ernst Peter Fischer, Julia Voss, and Anna Laestadius Larsson. The director's first feature film breaks not only the mold but the narrative of art history as we know it, by refreshing the significance of af Klint’s contribution to the modern abstract art movement.

The film delves into the complex narrative of an artist who was not only ahead of her time but also largely ignored by time's qua chroniclers. Considered a pioneer of the modern abstract art movement, Hilma af Klint’s work predates that of famed artists such as Wassily Kandinsky and Piet Mondrian. Nonetheless, she remained relatively unknown to the broader public until the 21st century, primarily because she stipulated that her work was not to be displayed until 20 years after her death.

The title of the film, Beyond the Visible, accurately sums up the life's work of af Klint. Her radical abstract paintings were so far beyond the conventional art of her time, one could argue they were invisible to those who couldn't comprehend such departure from convention. The deeply spiritual themes and intricate geometric patterns that permeate her work speak to a clarity of vision and singularity of intent that were grossly undervalued in their day.

Dyrschka's approach here is scholarly, yet heartfelt. Pivotal moments of Hilma af Klint’s life are brought to life through probing interviews, thorough archival research, and the breathtakingly beautiful display of her artwork. Dramatization of certain phases of af Klint’s life is subtly and artistically done, providing audiences with a comprehensive look into the artist's personal and professional lives. She was part of a spiritual group named 'The Five' and believed in communicating with spirits, which she claimed guided her hand in creating her most famous works.

Ernst Peter Fischer, a Germany Historian of Science, contributes significantly to the narrative. He provides a discourse on the interface of science, spirituality, and art - an interesting triad that significantly influenced Klint’s abstract works. Julia Voss, a renowned art historian, also sheds light on the biases and the invisibility of women in art history, which played a part in Hilma af Klint’s work going unacknowledged for so long.

There are also contributions from other significant voices in the art industry, such as Johan af Klint, Hilma's nephew, who is among the individuals that the filmmaker interviews. Swedish artist, Anna Laestadius Larsson adds insightful commentary too, analyzing the deep spirituality and deft command of abstraction in Klint's work.

The filmmaker's approach within the documentary is commendable for its nuance and patience. Dyrschka manages to craft a sensitive and detailed narrative around an artist whose story has been so egregiously neglected — making the film a fitting tribute to a true genius in the art world.

Music, lighting, and cinematography in the documentary are used to great effect, enhancing the viewing experience. While the documentary is insightful and educational, it simultaneously makes for an emotional watch, especially when it brings to light the challenges Klint faced as a female artist in a male-dominated domain.

Beyond The Visible: Hilma af Klint is an exploration of the artist's remarkable contribution to the world of abstract art, challenging traditional art history's trajectories, and reestablishing af Klint earning long overdue acknowledgment and admiration. It is an extremely watchable, well-made, detailed, and passionate film that articulates the influence of af Klint’s art, which genuinely was 'beyond the visible.' Every art enthusiast will thoroughly enjoy this profound journey into the realm of abstract art, and anyone unfamiliar with Hilma af Klint will find a compelling introduction to a visionary artist neglected for too long.