I am an artist from Tampere, Finland. I graduated from Lahti Art Institute in 1995. I’ve had my work on display in Finland, as well as in other countries. I’ve took part in numerous joint displays all over the world, including India, Japan, France, USA, Italy and Brazil.
The imagery of my work has been influenced by my trips to India and other inspiring destinations along the years. While traveling, I have experienced hurricanes, the cordiality of the poor people and everything in between. Love is something that touches everyone, regardless if you live in a slum or in a wealthy neighbourhood. Everyone needs love around themselves. Love has a different meaning for every one of us, as our history and thoughts paint our picture of love. Some might remember their first kiss in a summer night, while some can still feel the bitter sting on their chest as the love of their life has been lost. The altruistic form of love never perishes. While traveling, I have absorbed the full spectrum of colours. In the slums of India, I have seen how people get along with so little. However, they embrace all kinds of diverse colours to the extent, that it might make a western traveller dizzy. Recycling and the insight, which forms from it impresses me.
Through the years I have used tablecloths, laces, sheets, clothes and other recyclable materials. I am developing the concept forward and from that inspiration I have created the paintings of this display from recycled denim. Potential and opportunity can be found by anyone, even from the weirdest places and situations.
In the back pockets like a rocket, travel the light-hearted characters, but the paintings have a serious message too. In the poor conditions of India, the colours are bright and the attitude cheery, while the physical reality can be crushingly tragic. Western tourists’ overwhelming consuming, the overconsuming of natural resources, are both symbolized in the denim, the pinnacle of the fashion industry.
I try to provide an unbiased approach and to raise thoughts and discussion. What is art like and what feelings should it inspire? Ranting is pointless. Even the poorest can teach the key to the highest fortune.