Hilma af Klint: Parsifal and the Atom 1916–1917: Catalogue Raisonné Volume IV

The two series presented in this volume, Parsifal and The Atom, are Hilma af Klint's (1862–1944) first major works after she completed The Paintings for the Temple. In these series, af Klint appears to have experienced a new feeling of independence, even as she continued to claim that she was guided by spiritual leaders.

The Parsifal series is inspired by the Arthurian legend and is usually interpreted as an exploration of inner spheres and different planes of consciousness. The Atom, on the other hand, seems to be a study of the universe's spiritual structure, with af Klint's understanding of the concept of the atom being inspired by the Theosophical and Anthroposophical ideas that slumbering spirit is contained within all matter.

These two series show af Klint attempting to understand her early clairvoyant experiences. While she still claimed to be guided by spiritual leaders, she also appears to have developed a new sense of independence in her artistic practice. The Parsifal series, with its exploration of inner realms and consciousness, and The Atom, with its focus on the spiritual nature of the universe, both demonstrate af Klint's ongoing engagement with the metaphysical and spiritual aspects of her work.

The Paintings for the Temple, which af Klint completed prior to these two series, had already established her reputation as a pioneering abstract artist. With Parsifal and The Atom, she continued to push the boundaries of her artistic expression, exploring themes of spirituality, consciousness, and the nature of the universe. These works reflect af Klint's ongoing journey of self-discovery and her efforts to reconcile her own clairvoyant experiences with the broader spiritual and philosophical frameworks that were influencing her practice.

The Parsifal series, in particular, has been the subject of much scholarly attention, with its complex symbolism and exploration of the Arthurian legend seen as a key aspect of af Klint's artistic development. The Atom, meanwhile, has been interpreted as a reflection of af Klint's growing interest in the emerging scientific understanding of the atomic structure of matter, and how this intersected with her own spiritual beliefs.

Overall, these two series demonstrate the breadth and depth of af Klint's artistic practice, as she continued to grapple with the spiritual and metaphysical dimensions of her work. Her exploration of themes of consciousness, the nature of the universe, and the relationship between matter and spirit, have made her a significant figure in the history of modern art and the ongoing dialogue between art and spirituality.

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