Art has long been intertwined with the natural world, serving as both a source of inspiration and a medium for exploring humanity’s relationship with the environment. In Finland, this connection runs deep, with artists drawing from the country’s rich landscapes and biodiversity to create works that reflect their thoughts on nature, society, and identity. Through a series of studio visits and interviews, we delve into the practices of 12 diverse artists who find solace, inspiration, and purpose in Finland’s forests, shores, and open seas.
Embracing Nature: Anni Hanén and Camilla Vuorenmaa
Visual artists Anni Hanén and Camilla Vuorenmaa both find solace and inspiration in Finland’s natural landscapes.
For Hanén, childhood memories of exploring the forest serve as a foundation for her work, which often reflects on themes of biodiversity and land use. Her choice of materials, such as cyanotypes printed on family heirloom bedsheets, adds a personal touch to her pieces.
Similarly, Vuorenmaa explores the interconnectedness of humanity and the environment, using various mediums like painting and woodcarving to capture the essence of human influence on nature. Through their art, both artists invite viewers to reflect on their own relationship with the natural world.
Cultural Identity and Advocacy: Kihwa-Endale and Matti Aikio
For Kihwa-Endale and Matti Aikio, art serves as a means of exploring cultural identity and advocating for indigenous rights.
Kihwa-Endale, a painter and spoken-word poet, uses mirrors in her work to symbolize the interconnectedness of human stories and experiences. Through her community project Kairos, she aims to decentralize art and create spaces where diverse narratives can thrive.
Aikio, a Sámi artist and reindeer herder, explores the unique connection between the Sámi people and nature, highlighting the challenges they face in preserving their traditional way of life amidst modern society’s encroachment. Through their art and activism, both Kihwa-Endale and Aikio seek to raise awareness of indigenous cultures and promote environmental stewardship.
Science and Conservation: Paula Humberg and Paavo Halonen
Photographer and bio-artist Paula Humberg and contemporary artist Paavo Halonen draw inspiration from science and conservation in their work.
Humberg’s photography and bio-artistry explore topics such as deforestation and biodiversity loss, using techniques like microscopy to reveal the hidden beauty of the natural world. Collaborative projects, like her exploration of pollinators in Greenland, bridge the gap between art and scientific research.
Halonen, on the other hand, incorporates reused materials into his contemporary art as a reflection of human responsibility for the environment. Drawing from his travels and cultural influences, he uses religious symbolism to convey messages of stewardship and connection to nature. Through their art, Humberg and Halonen aim to provoke thought and inspire action towards environmental conservation.
The artists of Finland offer a diverse range of perspectives on nature, society, and the human experience through their creative practices. Whether reflecting on childhood memories in the forest, advocating for indigenous rights, or exploring scientific concepts, these artists remind us of the importance of preserving and appreciating the natural world. As we navigate an increasingly complex and interconnected world, their work serves as a beacon of inspiration and a call to action for a more sustainable future.
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