Vandorn Hinnant, a seasoned artist, has spent a lifetime immersed in the world of creativity, geometry, and spiritual exploration. His journey, deeply influenced by the works and life of Hilma af Klint, has been one of discovery, perseverance, and ultimately, acceptance of the “Divine Timing” that guides his artistic expression.
Hinnant’s connection with Hilma af Klint goes beyond mere admiration. Her life story resonated with him on a profound level, particularly her relationship with her benefactress, which mirrored his own experiences. In 2002, Hinnant encountered two significant benefactresses who would become instrumental in his life and work. His wife, AnaMaria, and another sacred soul companion, whose identity remains anonymous, entered his life that year. These relationships, as Hinnant describes, are marriages “made in heaven,” providing him with the support and inspiration necessary to pursue his artistic endeavors.
Throughout his career, Hinnant has faced the common struggle of many artists: the relentless pursuit of recognition and the frustration of feeling overlooked. For years, he fiercely pushed to have his work seen and appreciated in the art world. This push, however, gradually gave way to a deeper understanding and appreciation of the natural timing of life. At 71, Hinnant reflects on this shift, embracing the grace and timing that have come to define his artistic journey.
A recent milestone in Hinnant’s career underscores this sense of divine timing. The Indianapolis Museum of Art added one of his works, “Three Golden Rings” a.k.a. “Leonardo’s Secret,” to their collection. This piece, now part of their educational programming, will play a role in an upcoming initiative related to Leonardo da Vinci’s legacy. This recognition is a testament to Hinnant’s belief in the rightness of timing and the unfolding of opportunities in their due course.
Hinnant’s current projects continue to reflect his deep engagement with geometric and spiritual themes. One particularly exciting development in his work is the incorporation of hand-written text. Inspired by his mentor, Robert Lee Powell Sr., Hinnant has been exploring the idea of adding phrases that pay homage to visionary figures. A notable example is the phrase, “And Bucky said: Give me a handful of seeds and I will feed the world,” a tribute to Buckminster Fuller, whom Powell once honored in his drawings. As the caretaker of Powell’s archives, Hinnant finds himself immersed in a treasure trove of writings, correspondence, geometric drawings, and more, further enriching his creative process.
The influence of Powell’s work and philosophy is evident in Hinnant’s own creations. Powell, a significant influence in Hinnant’s artistic development, left behind a legacy of geometric exploration and spiritual inquiry that continues to inspire Hinnant. The archives, filled with Powell’s musings and meticulous drawings, serve as both a source of inspiration and a reminder of the interconnectedness of their journeys.
Hinnant’s life and work are a testament to the power of patience, perseverance, and the acceptance of life’s natural rhythms. His journey, marked by significant relationships and guided by a deep spiritual connection, reflects a profound understanding of the grace that underlies artistic creation. As he continues to explore new ideas and themes, Hinnant remains grateful for the richness of his experiences and the support of those who have walked alongside him.
In Vandorn Hinnant’s world, art is not just about creation but about the journey itself. It’s about the people who influence us, the mentors who guide us, and the unseen forces that shape our paths. As he looks forward to new projects and continued exploration, Hinnant embraces the grace and timing that have always been a part of his life, finding joy and fulfillment in every step of his artistic voyage.
