This exhibition has passed
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Cecilia Edefalk & Hilma af KlintViewing Plants
In the autumn of 2009, The Nordic Watercolour Museum presents a unique exhibition of Cecilia Edelfalk’s floral watercolours paired with a selection of Hilma af Klint’s esoteric floral studies from the early 1900s. Cecilia Edefalks 150 watercolours of European coastal plants are the outcome of a number of journeys made by the artist in the late 70s. They were commissioned by the publishing house Wahlström och Widstrand for the planned issuing of a plant catalogue but a branch crisis unfortunately prevented this publication. The paintings have waited until now for their public viewing. The plants´ names can be found in the catalouge published for the exhibition.
Alongside these works are displayed 17 watercolours by Hilma af Klint (1862-1944). At the turn of the century was best known for her landscape and portrait paintings. Throughout her life she was interested in religion, anthroposophy and mystique. Early in the 20th century she painted several series intended to depict the imperishable and everlasting. She described these works as a task from heaven. In the paintings exhibited at The Nordic Watercolour Museum the artist seeks the essence and soul of nature. Hilma af Klint was one of the pioneers in the field of abstract art. Her paintings are seldom on public view. Her production is administered by the Stiftelsen Hilma af Klints Verk, who have also lent the watercolours for this exhibition.
Cecilia Edefalk and Hilma af Klint created their natural history pictures at different art historical periods. Each of these artists has in her own way – and with equal intensity – depicted the essence of the plant kingdom as interpreted through their inner and outer travels. In their paintings of plants they reflect their fascination with nature’s own codes. They have both made masterly use of the watercolour medium to express their message. In the exhibition, two different visual worlds meet and illuminate one another. Here, new possibilities for interpretation open up, and the perspectives on the artistic practices are broadened.
participating artists
Pictures from the exhibition
