Hilma af Klint’s Evolution, No. 13, Group VI (1908) is a remarkable work that delves into themes of spiritual progression, transformation, and the cyclical nature of existence. This painting is part of her Evolution series, which captures her vision of humanity’s journey from the physical to the spiritual realm. The work features intricate layers of geometric shapes, spirals, and bold colours, arranged in ways that suggest both growth and balance. These elements represent af Klint’s understanding of evolution not merely as a biological process, but as a profound, multi-dimensional journey towards enlightenment. In her view, evolution encompasses the soul’s development as it transcends physical limitations, ultimately reaching a state of unity with the divine.
The creation of Evolution, No. 13 was deeply influenced by af Klint’s commitment to her spiritual beliefs and practices. As a member of The Five, a spiritualist group dedicated to exploring otherworldly connections, af Klint engaged in seances and rituals to channel what she felt were messages from higher spiritual beings, whom she called the “High Masters.” She believed these beings communicated wisdom to her, guiding her artistic vision beyond her own conscious intentions. Through meditative practices and spiritual sessions, af Klint received what she saw as instructions to create paintings that expressed universal truths. This approach made her art unique, as she viewed herself as a medium, painting in a style she felt was “commissioned” by the spiritual realm rather than personally driven.
The symbolism in Evolution, No. 13 is rich and layered, capturing af Klint’s view of spiritual development as a process of internal and cosmic evolution. The spirals and geometric forms symbolise growth, change, and the interconnectedness of all things, hinting at a process of ascension that is central to spiritual evolution. Her use of vibrant colours juxtaposed with softer pastels suggests the harmonisation of oppositional forces—light and dark, male and female, material and spiritual—that she believed were essential to the soul’s progress. Af Klint’s Theosophical influences are evident here, reflecting her belief in a universe governed by cycles, where each step in evolution brings the individual soul closer to understanding its place within the divine order. The painting invites viewers to contemplate evolution as a cosmic journey of enlightenment, uniting all beings in a shared purpose.
Hilma af Klint, born in 1862 in Sweden, trained in academic art before her spiritual path led her toward abstraction. She was deeply influenced by spiritual movements like Theosophy and Anthroposophy, which emphasised the existence of hidden spiritual dimensions that could be accessed and understood through meditative practices and inner exploration. Af Klint was far ahead of her time, creating non-representational art before pioneers like Kandinsky and Mondrian. However, she chose not to exhibit her abstract works during her lifetime, believing that the world was not ready to understand her message. She left instructions that her works be kept private for at least twenty years after her death, resulting in a delayed but significant recognition of her groundbreaking contributions to modern art and spirituality.
Today, Evolution, No. 13 stands as a powerful testament to af Klint’s spiritual vision and artistic innovation. The painting’s vibrant forms and symbolic structure continue to inspire audiences, inviting viewers to reflect on the themes of spiritual growth and interconnectedness that were central to her philosophy. Hilma af Klint’s legacy has redefined the history of abstract art, positioning her as a pioneering figure who used art not simply for self-expression but as a means to explore universal spiritual principles. Her work resonates with contemporary audiences, affirming her belief in art’s potential to bridge the material and spiritual realms and to encourage the viewer’s own journey towards enlightenment. In this way, Evolution, No. 13 remains a profound reflection on the nature of existence, encouraging us to see evolution as a journey not just of the body, but of the soul.
