The thin background information is a result of the neglect of this prolific and inventive artist for more than a century. “Beyond the Visible” is a chapter in the wholesale revision of the critical and historical record that began only recently, and it enlists a passionate and knowledgeable cadre of curators, scholars, scientists and artists to press the argument for af Klint’s importance. The paintings themselves are the best evidence — even through the mediation of a home screen, their vibrancy, wit and formal command is thrilling — but the intellectual and cultural context is fascinating too.

The experts link af Klint’s explorations with contemporary scientific discoveries, like radio waves and the X-ray, that pointed toward the unseen dimensions of reality, and also with the mystical movements of her time. She was drawn to the Theosophy of Helena Blavatsky and to the teachings of the Austrian spiritualist Rudolf Steiner, with whom she corresponded. Her visionary interests, far from suggesting eccentricity, place her squarely in the mainstream of modernism, many of whose exponents in various arts (including Kandinsky) found inspiration in the esoteric.

“Beyond the Visible” bristles with the excitement of discovery and also with the impatience that recognition has taken so long. It refreshes the eyes and the mind.

Beyond the Visible: Hilma af Klint

Not rated. In Swedish, English and German, with subtitles. Running time: 1 hour 34 minutes. Watch on Kino Marquee.