Hilma af Klint (1862–1944) was a Swedish artist and one of the pioneers of abstract art. She is often credited with creating some of the first abstract paintings in Western art history. Af Klint's work, however, was not widely recognized during her lifetime, as she kept much of it private and stipulated that it should not be exhibited until 20 years after her death.

Af Klint was a member of a group of spiritualists and mystics known as "The Five" or "The Five, Paintings for the Temple." The group engaged in seances and explored various spiritual and esoteric practices, influencing af Klint's artistic creations.

Af Klint's most significant work is called the "Paintings for the Temple." These were a series of large-scale paintings created to be displayed in a spiritual temple. The works were highly symbolic and often incorporated geometric shapes, spiritual symbols, and vibrant colors.

Hilma af Klint created abstract works before the more famous abstract artists of the early 20th century, such as Wassily Kandinsky and Kazimir Malevich. Her abstract paintings predate Kandinsky's by several years. Following af Klint's wishes, her abstract works were not exhibited until 20 years after she died in 1944. The first major exhibition of her work took place in the 1980s, bringing her innovative contributions to the art world's attention. Hilma af Klint's work has since gained recognition and acclaim for its pioneering role in the development of abstract art. She is now considered an important figure in the history of modern art, and her paintings are displayed in major museums around the world.

Hilma af Klint's art remains notable for its combination of spirituality, symbolism, and abstraction, and her unique approach has left a lasting impact on the evolution of modern art.