The core of this extensive showing of Akseli Gallen-Kallela’s works revolves around the theme of the forest. The sombre wilderness was the permanent basis of his art, and an inexhaustible source of ideas and impulses. Throughout his life, Gallen-Kallela sought contact with genuine untouched nature. In the forest, the artist experienced a tranquil solitude providing the silence for listening to and understanding nature’s own language. The forest was also a place for the whole family to enjoy, and the artist built many of his homes in outlying locations.

Visions of the forest found expression in Gallen-Kallela’s oeuvre as both expansive landscapes and the presence of detailed elements, for example in his applied art and furniture designs. Cones, ferns and spruce branches were shaped as ornaments in his works. Gallen-Kallela saw the beauty of nature even in the smallest branches, as shown by the many paper knives and door handles that he carved, among other objects. The artist would seek his themes walking, on bicycle or skiing in the winter. ”When I’m out skiing I always have copper plates in my pocket, and when I see something that I want to record, I take a sharp needle and engrave the fleeting image there, standing on my skis.”

The journey into the work, ideas and memories of the artist takes place in an allusive forest setting: from a dark and even mystical forest of the mind towards a clear and vibrant experience of nature. The exhibits include paintings, prints, applied art, and objects of design and applied art, as well personal items of the artist and his family, from artist’s equipment to exotic souvenirs.

This exhibition is particularly aimed at children and families and it will include workshops. The display of the works and the exhibition texts take particular note of children visitors.

Please address workshop enquiries to Museum Secretary Kati Nenonen,
phone (09) 541 3388, kati.nenonen@gallen-kallela.fi

Gallen-Kallela Museum