ROVANIEMI FINLAND 3 - 5 JUNE 2019
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ROVANIEMI FINLAND 3 – 5 JUNE 2019
Welcome to the Land of the Midnight Sun,
Welcome to the Land where the Sun Does Not Set...
ARCTIC ARTS SUMMIT COVER PHOTO
MAGAZINE Greenlandic Mask Dance
June 2019 by Connie Kristoffersen
Ruska Ensemble
EDITOR Photo: Gerth Lyberth
Moira Douranou
SPREAD PHOTO
GRAPHIC DESIGN Chukchi Throat Singing
Ulla Ollila, Kuohu Design by Anra Naw
Ruska Ensemble
CONTRIBUTORS Photo: Katri Vauhkonen
Maria Huhmarniemi
Katja Rakkolainen PRINTED BY
Timo Jokela Popa – Pohjolan Palvelut Oy
2 3
ROVANIEMI CITY MAP
THE ARENAS
1 University of Lapland
Yliopistonkatu 8
Day 1 – Pre-Summit,
Monday 3rd of June
3
CONTENTS Day 3 – Dialogue and
Hands-on Approach,
Map & info. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Wednesday 5th of June
7
Introduction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 2 Lappia Hall
Jorma Eton tie 8 A
Greetings From the North Day 2 – Policy Day,
President of the Republic of Finland, Sauli Niinistö. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Tuesday 4th of June
Chair of the Arctic Arts Summit 2019, Timo Jokela. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Director General, Department of Art and Cultural Policy, 8 10 VENUES
12 13
Ministry of Education and Culture, Finland, Riitta Kaivosoja. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
11 6 3 Arktikum House
Director of the Arts Promotion Centre Finland, Paula Tuovinen.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Pohjoisranta 4
5 4 9
President of University of Lapland, Mauri Ylä-Kotola. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Fringe, Exhibition opening,
Monday 3rd of June
Vice-President of University of the Arctic, Outi Snellman. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Mayor of City of Rovaniemi, Esko Lotvonen.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 4 Korundi House of Culture
Lapinkävijäntie 4
The Language of Sámi Arts Welcome reception by
President of Sámi Parliament of Finland, Tiina Sanila-Aikio.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 the City of Rovaniemi,
Place of origin,
Rovaniemi – A City that Has It All Arctic // Street Art // Summit,
2 Exhibition opening,
Chair of the Artists´Association of Lapland, Maria Huhmarniemi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Tuesday 4th of June
Rovaniemi Arctic Spirit Conference.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
5 Gallery Napa
University of Lapland – Art and Design Blend Under the Arctic Umbrella Kairatie 3
Faculty of Art and Design. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Young Arctic Artists,
Master’s Degree Programme in Arctic Art and Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Exhibition opening,
Tuesday 4th of June
Arctic Sustainable Arts and Design (ASAD) Network,
Docent at University of Lapland, Glen Coutts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 6 Ravintola Valdemari
Jäämerentie 9
Exhibitions – In the midst of Societal Transformations Dinner,
Young Arctic Artists Exhibition Series Project, Ninni Korkalo; Panu Johansson.. . . . . . 18 Solju, Quantum Tangle,
Wednesday 5th of June
Fringe, Ekaterina Sharova; Maria Huhmarniemi; Ásthildur Jónsdóttir. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Transactions and Impulsions, Mirja Hiltunen; Timo Haanpää.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Place of Origin, Riitta Kuusikko. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 ACCOMMODATION
7 Aakenus Hotel
Artistic Programme – Arts Across the Arctic Koskikatu 47
The Arctic Soiree by Ruska Ensemble.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 8 Scandic Rovaniemi City
NORDTING by Northern Assembly. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Koskikatu 23
Quantum Tangle. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 9 Arctic City Hotel
Pekankatu 9
Solju. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 1 10 Santa’s Hotel Santa Claus
Art Performances by Piste Collective.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Korkalonkatu 29
Transportation / Collecting point
Welcome to Silence Festival.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 11 Arctic Light Hotel
Valtakatu 18
Programme and Visual Maps. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 12 Sokos Hotel Vaakuna
Koskikatu 4
13 Scandic Pohjanhovi
Map data © 2019 Google Pohjanpuistikko 2
4 5
Arctic Arts Summit
ROVANIEMI
3–5 JUNE 2019
THE ARCTIC AS A LABORATORY FOR
SUSTAINABLE ART AND CULTURAL POLICY
Arctic Arts Summit 2019 is the second of its kind following up the first one arranged in Harstad, Norway, in ear participants of the
Arctic Arts Summit,
2017. Artists and other actors of art and cultural sector and policy attend from all of the member countries
of the Arctic Council: Canada, the Kingdom of Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, the Russian Federation, I offer my best greetings to the second Arctic Arts
Sweden and the United States. Summit. This spring, Rovaniemi has truly been the
Arctic capital of the world. About a month ago, the
foreign ministers of all eight Arctic countries came to
Under the theme The Arctic as a Laboratory for sustainable in the Arctic. Representatives from ministries of Arctic
Rovaniemi for the ministerial meeting of the Arctic
art and cultural policy, in this year’s Arctic Arts Summit, countries and keynote speakers will share their vision for
Council. The Arctic Council chairmanship has now
the challenges and circumstances in the Arctic are seen the development of Arctic arts and culture. The Policy Day
moved to Iceland, but the Arctic remains a key priority multidimensional challenges that the Arctic region is
as ‘laboratory’ in which sustainable art and cultural takes place at Lappia Hall. In the evening, the opening
for Finland. The Arctic Arts Summit is a good example facing both now and in the future.
policy is developed in collaboration with all of the Arctic of the exhibition Place of Origin, will take place at the
of this continuity.
countries. The key aim of the Arctic Arts Summit 2019 Korundi House of Culture, and the Young Arctic Artists at Arctic arts and culture present several economic
is to support art and cultural sectors in the circumpolar the Gallery Napa. It is of crucial importance that we keep on talking opportunities. The arts, design and creative industries
collaboration. The indigenous art and cultural policy as about the Arctic in many different forums. These of film, cultural tourism and indigenous cultural
well as interdisciplinary research on the impact of the The last day will serve as a platform for dialogue and discussions all serve the same goal: protecting the businesses are becoming increasingly important
art and culture are essential themes of the summit. We hands-on approach, taking place at the University of precious Arctic environment that we share. As I have platforms. Arctic countries can create value and
need to recognize, develop and promote sustainable Lapland. Arctic art institutions and organisations will often said, if we lose the Arctic, we lose the globe. We growth though these mediums in a sustainable way
and responsible models of action, long term planning, host a variety of sessions from academic, artistic and cannot afford to lose the Arctic and with the current – economically, socially and culturally. We need new
infrastructure in the creative field, and cooperation in development perspectives. speed of climate change, we risk doing so. Thus, the methods of capacity building, especially among the
education. theme of the summit reflects the actual situation at young generation. Cultural and higher education
The summit is enriched with several exhibitions, concerts,
hand. Our Arctic really is a laboratory for our future. institutions are some of the key players in the future
The summit is structured in three days. On the first performances and workshops, before, during and within
of the Arctic.
day, meetings by various organisations and networks, the sessions, as well as, with a Pre-Conference Field Trip The Arctic Arts Summit is a valuable and timely initiative
presentations of research papers and artistic in Inari, Sápmi. The artistic programme contributes to the to raise awareness of these circumstances and highlight I hope that the Arctic Arts Summit 2019 in Rovaniemi
programme will take place at the University of Lapland. content of the event – the Arctic arts get visibility and the the rich Arctic culture with its many languages, sub- will be an innovative laboratory that will promote
In the evening, the opening of the exhibition Fringe is voices of artists and cultural agencies are being heard. cultures and the coexistence of indigenous and non- fruitful dialogue and constructive ideas for the future.
taking place at the Arktikum House. indigenous people. In that way, the summit fulfils
Arctic Arts Summit takes place in Rovaniemi, Finland,
also the agenda of UNESCO’s Year of Indigenous
During the second day, policymakers and stakeholders Monday 3rd to Wednesday 5th June 2019. The Summit is
Languages. Collaboration between art and culture Sauli Niinistö
from cultural sectors throughout the Arctic region will planned as a biennial event, rotating between the Arctic
stakeholders and other disciplines is important. It helps President of the Republic of Finland
present, analyze and discuss the role of arts and culture countries.
us develop sustainable and responsible solutions to the Patron of the Arctic Arts Summit 2019
6 7
or the second time, the Arctic
Arts Summit welcomes del-
egates from the Arctic countries
and beyond to discuss the future policy of
arts and culture in the Arctic. The first gath-
ering was held in Harstad, Norway in 2017
Photo: Marko Junttila
and will convene this time in Rovaniemi, the
Arctic capital of Finland.
Rovaniemi is a city of active arts and culture
and home of the University of Lapland with
its Arctic Centre and Faculty of Art and
Design, vivid research, development and higher education hub. That is why the theme of the summit The Arctic uring the recently finished Finnish Chair professionals, different local stakeholders, policymak-
as a Laboratory for sustainable art and cultural policy is well-positioned to take place in Rovaniemi. manship in the Arctic Council, Finland ers and regional experts to exchange views, visions,
highlighted two recent milestones that dreams and relevant research in the Arctic area. Arctic
Rapid changes in the Arctic region call for creative solutions for the future and highlight the role of the arts in
have major relevance to the Arctic, the Sustainable Arts Summit has evolved to respond to this demand.
many ways. On the one hand, ecological, cultural, social and economical changes pose socio-cultural challenges
Development Goals of the 2030 Agenda and the universal,
that are often connected to the cultural identities of the people of the Arctic. Questions of indigenous arts and How can the role of culture and arts be strengthened
legally binding climate agreement in Paris in 2015.
culture are essential in talking about Arctic arts and sustainability. and better acknowledged in the sustainable develop-
The Arctic region is characterized by small populations, ment work of the Arctic? Can experiences in the Arctic
On the other hand, recent developments have also created new possibilities for art, creative industries and the
cultural diversity, wealth of minority languages as well culture and art field serve as inspiration for cross-
economic well-being of the region. We believe that artists’ creative work in the field of sustainable development,
as long distances. The Arctic culture is vital, bold and sectoral and coherent policy development in the Arctic
education on sustainability in the arts and culture field, collaborative research and community-based activist
evolving. The global change in both ecological, cultural, and even elsewhere?
strategies will play an important role in the future of the Arctic.
societal and economical perspective is especially tangi-
ble in the Arctic region. These changes affect well-being Finland thanks Norway for taking the initiative for this
During the Summit, artists, art and culture policymakers and people from other sectors of society and other series of Arctic debates in Harstad and the Icelandic
and sustainable development in communities and pose
academic disciplines will discuss and analyse how to develop and promote sustainable and responsible models chairmanship in the Nordic Council of Ministers for a
challenges. Some of the ongoing changes open new pos-
of art and culture practices, activities, infrastructures and circumpolar collaboration. good collaboration in the Arctic Arts Summit process.
sibilities at the same time. Art itself and cultural policies
are also effective tools in building resilience in Arctic Finland’s aspiration is that the Summit can contribute
We hope for a stimulating and inspiring Summit in Rovaniemi for all participants.
communities. to a stronger culture policy dialogue in the Arctic region
in the continuous work as arts and culture lie in the core
Timo Jokela The Arctic Arts Summit presents the Arctic as a ‘laborato- of shaping the future of the Arctic.
Chair of the Arctic Arts Summit 2019, Professor in the University of Lapland, Finland ry’ in which sustainable art and cultural policy are viewed
Lead of the Arctic Sustainable Arts and Design Thematic Network, University of Arctic
in a horizontal perspective. The Summit highlights the on- Riitta Kaivosoja
going International Year of Indigenous Languages. There Director General, Department of Art and Cultural Policy,
is a growing demand for a platform for arts and culture Ministry of Education and Culture, Finland
8 9
he concept of sustainable development has thus far The quality systems of
been based on modernism. Generally speaking, as a sustainable development
continuation of the Enlightenment, modernism be- of different groups are
equally valuable and can-
Photo: Marko Junttila
lieves in one reason, and that human nature is the same
every time and everywhere. Through rational discussion, not be evaluated with
people and societies can find the right goals and effective uniform criteria. This is
ways to reach them. Reason is the ability on which human especially important in the
relationships are based, and it is also what makes emanci- Arctic.
pation and progress possible.
Arctic society is a complex system that consists of individuals,
Romanticism, however, believes that there is no univer- communities and environments. When we talk about romanti-
sally applicable reason, but rather different belief systems cism-based sustainable development, we understand that tra-
that cannot be compared with uniform criteria. Romanti- ditional knowledge manifests differently in Salekhard, Yakutsk,
cism is interested in what is special in individuals, groups, Greenland and Rovaniemi, simply because their surroundings,
peoples and nations. One cornerstone of romanticism is cultures, communities, livelihoods and people are different. The
expressionism, according to which genuine expressions of current discourse builds a divide between the ecological and
n behalf of the Arts
human emotion must take precedence over clinical and unecological, but this is much more complicated if we look at it
Promotion Centre Finland,
one-dimensional scientific or rational concepts of quality. from a philosophical perspective.
I have the honor of warmly
In other words, romanticism emphasizes genuineness as a
welcoming you to Rovaniemi to explore May Arctic Arts Summit be the Laboratory of Arts for Romanti-
symbol of quality and human nature instead of artificiality.
the Arctic as a laboratory for sustainable cism and Enlightenment in the Arctic.
art and cultural policy. In terms of sustainable development and quality assurance,
we need a romanticism-based approach. Romanticism
As we all know, the world is getting emphasizes distinction, differences, and the new tribalism Mauri Ylä-Kotola
smaller. We all face many of the same that is created when people join and leave subcultures. President, University of Lapland, Finland
Photo: Noora Geagea
challenges. Climate change and other
megatrends are changing our living
environment.
any things in the Arctic have changed over Arctic Council during the
Photo: Marko Junttila
Artists often have the ability to perceive the past thirty years since the world leaders Finnish chairmanship in
started to talk about the importance of the 2017–2019 has been edu-
weak signals of the changes that are occurring in the environment and society at large. Artists are also eager
Arctic globally and the role of the people in the Arctic in cation, and art education
to contribute to the debate with their art and draw attention to the challenges. The Arctic Arts Summit in
shaping the destiny of the region. From a purely environ- is also one of the strong
Rovaniemi offers a topical location for discussing these challenges and the theme of sustainability from
mental, scientific and economic focus – after all, the Arctic themes in the Arts Sum-
different perspectives. mit.
plays a strong role in the global climate change challenge
and has a vast economic potential due to its enormous
The Arctic Arts Summit underlines the need for collaboration among individuals and organizations involved Let us hope that in the
natural resources – we have started to recognise that
in the field of the arts in the Artic region. I am convinced that this meeting will provide an excellent platform future, the role of art in
culture, and indeed art, are extremely important for the
for sharing development ideas, experiences and research results, as well as for stimulating social interaction shaping Arctic society will
sustainable development of the Arctic communities.
and professional networks. grow even stronger. When
This new focus is indebted to a large extent to the Arctic
we seek solutions to tackle
Council’s Sustainable Development Working Group and
Arctic art cooperation is a tool for enhancing mutual understanding between peoples and cultures. It is also humanity’s grand chal-
even more to the University of the Arctic (UArctic) Network,
vital for regional development in general. Exploring challenges through art and culture can bring new insight lenges, art, design and
which, through its Thematic Networks, has proposed
for self-development and transformation – and in doing so, promote sustainability. the creative economy may be perceived as powerful players in
circumpolar collaboration in culture, art and design.
the toolkit in changing global attitudes, on one hand, and in
The Arts Promotion Centre Finland is delighted to co-host this meeting in collaboration with the University of The UArctic Thematic Network on Arctic Sustainable Arts fostering liveable, culturally diverse communities and sustain-
Lapland and the City of Rovaniemi. We welcome you to engage with each other and to enjoy the discussions, and Design has had a tremendous impact during its ap- able economies in the Arctic, on the other hand.
the art and the midnight sun! proximately ten years of existence; people recognise the
The University of the Arctic wishes the Arctic Arts Summit
role of art and culture in the Northern societies. Rovanie-
mi – the city that lent its name to the Rovaniemi pro- a successful three-day event in Rovaniemi, Finland.
Paula Tuovinen cess, which led to the creation of the Arctic Council – has
Director, Arts Promotion Centre Finland prepared and is currently preparing for two key high-
level meetings, the recently concluded Arctic Council Outi Snellman
Ministerial Meeting on 6–7 May 2019 and the Arctic Arts Vice-President, Organization, University of the Arctic
Summit on 3–5 June 2019. One of the priorities of the Director of International Relations, University of Lapland, Finland
10 11
Photo: Kevin Francett / The Sámi Parliament
t is with great pleasure that Throughout the centuries, the Sámi
I welcome you to Rovaniemi, handicraft makers have innovatively
the Arctic Capital of Finland. combined the available materials into a
We are honored to host the Arctic function of necessity, which in turn has
Arts Summit 2019. provided a framework for the language of
Sámi handicrafts. This language of Sámi
The Arctic Arts Summit is a remark- design contains special cultural referenc-
able event that follows Finland’s es that an outsider cannot see, read, un-
two-year presidency in the Arctic derstand, or interpret. Craft has its own
Council. During Finland’s presidency, non-verbal language.
Photo: City of Rovaniemi
many important meetings took place
in Rovaniemi. The themes of these
remarkable meetings included Arctic
The Language of Sámi artists have incorporated the non-verbal
language of the Sámi handicrafts into their art. Artists
Resilience, Arctic Biodiversity, Arctic
Agriculture, Arctic Spirit and Arctic Sámi Arts know how to apply non-verbal language to different
art forms in a way that is fascinating to follow. The
Business. The last event during Fin- language of the Sámi arts surprises, challenges,
speaks out and underlines. The language of the Sámi
land’s Chairmanship was the Arctic foreign ministers’ ness people to develop further the products and services DEAR READER,
meeting in Rovaniemi in May 2019. suitable in arctic condition. art lives in time, developing while leaning to the
Language is a mirror of culture. Language reveals the
past. The art of the indigenous peoples has much in
After creating the Rovaniemi Process in 1991, minis- The Arctic Art Summit takes place under the Midnight philosophy of existence, the values, the perception
common, and the non-verbal language in art is one of
ters with environmental responsibility from eight arctic Sun. Midsummer has been celebrated for a long time in of things, and the depiction of the world around of
the unifying factors.
states met again in Rovaniemi in the autumn 2018. Dur- Nordic culture. Here the length of daylight hours differs the people using the language. The Sámi inhabit the
ing the past 17 years, the Arctic Environment Protection greatly throughout the year, so the biggest party of the Sámiland (Sää’mm for example in Skolt Sámi, Säämi Indigenous art is very com-
in Inari Sámi, Sápmi in North Sámi) in the territories of
THE LANGUAGE
Strategy has been the most important document re- summertime is celebrated when the year is at its lightest plex. There are levels that you
and when nature is at its brightest and most beautiful. four states, Norway, Sweden, Finland and Russia. The wouldn’t believe exist unless
OF THE SÁMI
garding the effects of climate change we are now facing.
Sámi are the only indigenous people in the region of you can see and read the in- ARTS SURPRISES,
Culture is an essential link to the well-being of people of I would like to take this opportunity to thank the organis- European Union. At the moment, there are still nine side messages of indigenous CHALLENGES,
all ages. We need to recognise the role of culture, crea- ers of Arctic Art Summit for making this event happen in Sámi languages spoken, three of them, that is, Inari culture. The indigenous peo- SPEAKS OUT AND
tive solutions, science and art in developing our society our city. International networks that link Rovaniemi with Sámi, Skolt Sámi and North Sámi, are spoken in Finland.
the rest of the world are very important to us and we
ples are alive with their cul- UNDERLINES.
for a better future. The University of Lapland as well as The Sámi languages contain an enormous amount of tures as long as indigenous
other institutions and non-governmental organisations are always seeking opportunities for co-operation with information, for example, about the Sámi lifestyle, peoples have their own artists who interpret their cul-
are highly appreciated partners of the City of Rovaniemi regions and cities in other countries. culture, livelihoods and natural conditions. ture and shape their thoughts to their art, challeng-
in this task. ing the people experiencing the art to understand the
I wish all summit participants and organisers a very
Sámi culture is nature-related, and the maintenance
pleasant time in Rovaniemi! connection between the art work and the continuity of
The other trademark of Rovaniemi is the Arctic Design and development of Sámi language and culture require
the culture and thus the way of life of the indigenous
Capital. Arctic Design Week has taken place in Rovaniemi pure and diverse nature. Traditional livelihoods are
people.
on eleven occasions. This unique week gathers together Esko Lotvonen fundamental part of Sámi culture, and Sámi livelihoods
international scientists, architects, designers and busi- Mayor, City of Rovaniemi include reindeer herding, fishing, hunting, gathering
and Sámi handicrafts. Traditional Sámi livelihoods form Tiina Sanila-Aikio
the material basis for Sámi culture. President, Sámi Parliament of Finland
12 13
Photo: Ritva Jaakkola
Rovaniemi – A City That Has It All and abroad. They combine traditional folk dance to modern 1933. Another historical building worth mentioning is
dance and contemporary aesthetics. As dance performances the old knife Factory of Marttiini with its exhibition of old
Rovaniemi, the capital of Lapland, is a city of vivid art and design, together with businesses and citizens, to discuss they open up for non-Finnish speaking audience as well. knives.
culture. By its number of citizens, it is a relatively small the possibilities and future for Arctic Design. The nature in
In addition to the Rovaniemi Theatre and the Rimpparemmi, Perhaps the oldest signs of history that can be found in
town: there are roughly 60 000 people living here. How- Lapland creates a magnificent setting for environmental
there are professional dramatic freelancers, amateur thea- Rovaniemi result from natural processes; for example,
ever, the land area of the city makes it one of the largest art and many skilful environmental artists live and work
tre groups and artists´ associations, which function in the the top of a hill in Ounasvaara was shaped during the
in Europe. in Lapland; some of them work at the University Lapland,
fields of theatre and the other performing arts. The Student ice age and signs of the ancient shore can be seen until
at the Faculty of Art and Design. Public art in Rovaniemi
The city was burnt down in 1944 after the Second World Theatre of Lapland is an amateur theatre group which pro- today.
has been photographed and is described on the Art Locator
War. Later, the 1950s and 1960s became a time of recon- duces plays and workshops for its members. They perform at
(www.artlocator.io), while a special event is the annual Old
struction. Today, it is home to the University of Lapland, the Wiljami Culture House. The artists of the Piste Collective Nevertheless, Rovaniemi is a constantly evolving place,
Market Square Carnival which is the biggest volunteer-
the Lapland Chamber Orchestra, the Rovaniemi Theatre, complete the theatre, dance and circus scene in Rovaniemi. lively, multi-cultural and welcoming for both locals and
based charity event in whole Finland.
the Korundi House of Culture, the Napa Gallery, Varjo They perform all around Finland and abroad. foreigners!
Gallery, the Arktikum House and it hosts several Artists´
Concerts, Clubs and Jam Sessions Since almost the whole city was burned down after the
Associations and Organisations. The Library building Maria Huhmarniemi
The music culture in Rovaniemi is quite diverse as the town Second World War, very few buildings remain to give a sense
(1968), the Lappia Hall (1976) and the City Hall (1986) One of the locals, Doctor of Arts, University lecturer
is home to dozens of choirs, bands and artists of different of history of the place, such as the Culture House Korundi Chair of the Artists´Association of Lapland
were all designed by the well-known Finnish architect,
styles. You can choose to go to concerts, gigs or jam ses- which is a former post bus depot, built out of red brick in Project Manager of the Arctic Arts Summit 2019
Alvar Aalto (1898–1976). The Art
sions. The Lapland Chamber Orchestra, the most northern
ROVANIEMI Museum houses over 3000 contem-
professional orchestra in the European Union has special-
porary Finnish artworks, the local
– THE MOST ised in giving first performances in Finland of works by in-
Circus School has over 500 mem-
NORTHERN ternational composers. It has also given world premieres of CLIMATE CHANGE AND THE FUTURE
bers, and the city enjoys an abun-
HOME OF ART, dance of pubs and restaurants.
works by several significant contemporary composers. The GENERATIONS, THEMES OF THE
DESIGN AND orchestra regularly tours Lapland and performs elsewhere ROVANIEMI ARCTIC SPIRIT
in Finland and abroad. In northern Finland, hard rock and
CULTURE. The vivacity of the city’s cultural life
coloured as it is by its art students, heavy metal have been popular for decades. Open Stage is The Rovaniemi Arctic Spirit Conference, fourth in a series,
the number of flea markets, and its location between the a free venue, where, artists and music lovers gather, either focuses on climate change in the Arctic, especially from the
West and East, make the city a significant meeting point. in Cellari or at the rock club Grande, while on Friday and point of view of young people. The conference will take place
Saturday nights, DJs play for example at the Café Kauppa- in Rovaniemi on 12–13 November 2019 and aims the voices
Art, Design and Culture yhtiö, Hostel Café Koti and in the Café & Bar 21. of the future generations to be heard.
Rovaniemi is celebrated as the most northern home
The first conference day will feature expert speeches and
of art, design and culture. The city hosts the world´s Dance, Circus and Theatre
panel discussions, and the second day will focus more on
northernmost design week for a decade now, the Arctic Rovaniemi Theatre, located and operated further north
scientific presentations. The main organizers of the confer- initiative by a group of active young people in Rovaniemi
Design Week, and this year it hosted for the first time than any other professional theatre in Europe, goes on tour
ence are the Arctic Centre at the University of Lapland and who are concerned about the future of our planet.
the design hackathon Dash Lapland, organized by a around Lapland and also performs in its home venue, Lap-
the City of Rovaniemi. During the event, Arctic Centre will ICCAY team came up with the idea of a competition where
non-profit Lapland Design Group whose primary goal pia Hall. Every year the theatre puts on plays of all genres,
celebrate its 30th anniversary. young people share their ideas to promote ecologically
is to promote design thinking in Northern Finland and with some of them thematically linked to Lapland. The Ro- sustainable development and prevent climate change.
enhance design knowledge in our society. The Arctic vaniemi-based Dance Theatre Rimpparemmi is a remark- Alongside the conference will also be organized an Interna-
Design Week brings together professionals in the field of able local professional theatre group that tours Finland tional Climate Challenge for the Arctic Youth (ICCAY), an www.rovaniemiarcticspirit.fi
14 15
ASAD – ARCTIC SUSTAINABLE
ARTS AND DESIGN NETWORK
University of Lapland – Art and Design Career Opportunities Established in 2011, the Arctic Sustainable Arts
Blend Under the Arctic Umbrella Due to the focus on art and design skills coupled with
practical project experience in interdisciplinary settings,
and Design (ASAD) is a Thematic Network of the
University of the Arctic that aims to identify and
a wide range of career options are open to graduates, share contemporary and innovative practices
for example: in teaching, learning, research and knowledge
FACULTY OF ART AND DESIGN exchange in the fields of arts, design and visual
• project management in the creative industries
The dialogue between art and science is a dynamic part of the stud- culture education. In addition, ASAD seeks to
• educational project working
ies, research, art and collaborations with different actors in society. Faculty of established in be an agent of change by bringing together
• independent creative consultancy
The connection between science and art is strengthened by the fact
that the faculty belongs to a multidisciplinary science university.
Art and Design 1990 • environmental art in partnership
academia and the creative industries for specific
events or projects. Between 2011 and 2018, seven
• public art
This gives students the chance to combine studies of design, tour- • community-based art Relate North symposia and exhibitions have taken
ism, marketing, economics, education and social sciences.
900 50 90
employees
• education (adult and community based) place in six different countries across the North.
In addition, five Relate North books have been
basic degree doctoral
The creative community in the north is a significant educator in Employers could include tourism companies, local or
students students published, each focusing on research and praxis in
the field of art and design, as a third of the higher educated pro- national government, creative industries galleries,
Arctic and Northern issues. The network consists
fessionals in the field in Finland have graduated from this facul- each year each year each year museums etc) social services or educational institutions.
of over 26 art and design art education universities
ty. Carrying out internationally ground-breaking work in winter,
environmental and community art, and creating new, innovative
100 200 90 and similar institutions across the circumpolar
area. Combining traditional knowledge with
new students degrees exhibitions in
methods for the use of service design and art education; the diverse our galleries I graduated from Applied Visual Art’s Master’s
modern academic knowledge and cultures at
international networks serve as bridges to the culture, art and art program in 2013. After graduation I worked in northern academic institutions represents an
education in the northern regions of Europe. www.ulapland.fi/EN/Units/Faculty-of-Art-and-Design short projects in which tasks varied from user- opportunity unique to the Arctic.
studies to designing customer-journeys. Then, a
really educational phase was when I was involved ASAD has been developed on collaborative part-
nership and collegiate principles to encourage
MASTER’S DEGREE PROGRAMME IN in projects organized by municipalities of Upper
Savo. There I learnt project management skills in a researchers, artists, designers and educators to
ARCTIC ART AND DESIGN I was born in South-Western Siberia, Rus-
great network of different fields. Skills came to use serve as visual entrepreneurs or consultants in
The Arctic Art and Design Master’s Degree Programme has been sia. A dream to study in Finland brought me
in Geodesign-project which got funding from TEKES various everyday environments. They may, for ex-
developed to respond to the changing role of the creative pro- to Rovaniemi about three years ago. I did not
and was executed in co-operation with University of ample, be developers of adventure and cultural
fessional in society. Since 2015, talented applicants with various expect that during the studies I will have a
Oulu and University of Lapland. I started my doctor- environments, art-related services, social actors
cultural and professional backgrounds have gathered here, at chance to be involved in various environmen-
al research also while working in Geodesign. Project or organizers of place-specific events. Thus, artis-
the University of Lapland in Rovaniemi, to study, practice, ex- tal and community art projects in Finland, tic work is carried out in cooperation with cultural
work has been interesting as it brings a changing
change, grow and expand both personally and professionally. Norway and Komi Republic (Russia). Collabo- institutions, the education and social sectors, or
rhythm to work life, but now, I am happy to work as
rative, multidisciplinary approach created a industry. Typically, the artistic activities share spaces
a Head of Tourism and Communications in Ranua
The degree aims to develop: great platform for learning the Arctic with with the social, technical, and cultural sectors.
• professional expertise at the intersection of art and design Municipality.”
its cultural, environmental and social spe-
practice cificities, on both local and global levels. In - Salla-Mari Koistinen, alumna The network is led by Professor Timo Jokela,
• competence in interdisciplinary working with business and addition to gain professional knowledge and University of Lapland.
community groups The programme is funded by the European Social Fund www.asadnetwork.org
experience, the studies helped me to con-
• advanced skills in project design and management nect to the North in a personal level through (ESF) and the Centre of Economic Development, Trans-
• research and evaluation skills in art and design workshops in the environment with natural port and the Environment. Glen Coutts
materials, in collaboration with local enter- www.ulapland.fi/EN/Admissions/Masters-Studies/ Professor of Applied Visual Arts Education
The content is designed to harness the potential of Service Masters-Degree-Programmes/Arctic-Art-and-Design Docent, University of Lapland, Finland
prises and communities. Meanwhile, fasci-
Design and Applied Visual Arts in social, community or business
nated by the dramatic changes in light and
contexts. Service Design and Applied Visual Arts are used by
colors, I fell in love with the North.”
students to work with clients and community groups to identify
Relate NoRth: Art and Design Education for Sustainability
Relate NoRth: Culture, Community and Communication
Relate NoRth: Art, Heritage & Identity
This book brings together the work of researchers, scholars and artists
Drawing on projects and studies from Canada, Finland, Iceland, Norway This anthology contains contributions from Canada, England, Finland,
problems and create solutions; it’s a creative collaboration.
whose professional activity centres on the fields of contemporary arts, de-
- Tanya Kravtsov, alumna
and the United States, Relate North: Art, Heritage & Identity explores con- Norway, Russia and Scotland. The interrelated themes of ‘culture’, ‘commu- sign, art education and sustainability. In general, the Relate North series
Drawing on studies from Canada, Finland, Iceland, Norway, Russia and
temporary practices in arts-based research and knowledge exchange in the nity’ and ‘communication’ formed the basis of the call that was issued to helps advance our understanding of art and design education, particularly
Scotland Relate North 2014 explores contemporary practices in arts based researchers, artists and designers. Drawing on projects and studies from
fields of arts and design. The essays and reports in the book interpret the
research and knowledge exchange in the fields of arts and design. The among people living in Northern and Arctic areas. This particular volume,
terms ‘arts’ and ‘design’ broadly to include, for example, crafts, indigenous northern countries, Relate North: Culture, Community and Communication
essays and reports in this volume interpret the terms ‘arts’ and ‘design’ the fifth in the series, focuses on the inter-relationship of art, design and
making, media and product design. By focusing on Northern and Arctic explores contemporary practices in arts-based research and knowledge ex-
broadly to include, for example, crafts, indigenous making, media and education for sustainability. Contributing authors provide fascinating ac-
perspectives of contemporary arts and design, links are made with issues change in the fields of art and design. The chapters and visual essays in the
product or service design. By directing attention to Northern and Arctic book interpret the terms ‘arts’ and ‘design’ broadly to include, for example, counts of current research and praxis in several northern countries includ-
of sustainability and context-sensitive research. The contributing authors
perspectives on contemporary arts and design, often linking those to provide thought-provoking accounts of current practice in these regions. crafts, indigenous making, media and product design. Aspects of culture ing Canada, Finnish Lapland, Scotland and Sweden.
issues of sustainability and context sensitive research, the authors provide and community are explored through the lens of contemporary arts and
thought-provoking accounts of current practice in these regions. Relate North: Art, Heritage & Identity brings together the work of lead- design. The contributing authors provide thought-provoking accounts of Art and Design Education for Sustainability will be of interest to a cross sec-
ing scholars to explore issues in the field of contemporary art, design, and current practice in art, design and education. tion of the art and design education research community which may
Relate NoRth 2014 brings together the work of leading scholars to ex- arts-based research. Relate North: Art, Heritage & Identity will be of interest include, for example, art and cultural historians, sociologists, artists, design-
plore issues in the field of contemporary arts, design and visual culture. Their to a wide audience including, for example, anthropologists, geographers, Relate North brings together the work of leading scholars to explore issues ers, art educators and practice-based researchers. In addition, the book will
writing helps advance our understanding of arts, design and visual culture sociologists, artists, designers, art educators, practice-based researchers in of contemporary art, design, and arts-based research. The book will be of be of use to undergraduate art and art education students, postgraduate
education particularly among people living in Northern and Arctic areas. addition to those with a general interest in Northern and Arctic issues. interest to a wide audience including, for example, practice-based research- students in the arts and policy makers concerned with northern issues relat-
Relate North 2014 engages with the wider theoretical debates and will be ers, artists, designers, anthropologists, geographers and social scientists in
ing to art, design, education and sustainability.
of interest to a wide audience including, for example, anthropologists, ge- addition to those with a general interest in Northern and Arctic issues.
ographers, sociologists, artists, designers and art educators, practice-based
Edited by Timo Jokela & Glen Coutts
Edited by Timo Jokela & Glen Coutts
Edited by Timo Jokela & Glen Coutts
researchers and those with a general interest in Northern and Arctic issues.
Edited by Timo Jokela & Glen Coutts
ISBN 978-952-310-972-8 ISBN 978-952-310-959-9
ISBN 9789523109599
www.ulapland.fi/LUP www.ulapland.fi/LUP 90000 > ISBN 978-952-310-929-2
ISBN 978-952-310-989-6
www.ulapland.fi/LUP
www.ulapland.fi/LUP
9 789523 109599
Edited by Edited by
Timo Jokela & Glen Coutts Timo Jokela & Glen Coutts
Edited by
Edited by Timo Jokela & Glen Coutts
Timo Jokela & Glen Coutts
LUP
Lapland University Press
RN2018kansi.indd 1 24.2.2019 13:46:44
16 Photo: Liu Huang & Juho Hiilivirta 17
Exhibitions
IN THE MIDST OF SOCIETAL TRANSFORMATIONS
“Home as a theme is intentionally
YOUNG ARCTIC ARTISTS EXHIBITION SERIES PROJECT
ambiguous, yet familiar and intimate.
‘Young Arctic Artists’ Exhibition Series is a three year project dedicated to create networks between young artists, curators
The chosen artworks connect with the
and art producers living in the northern Arctic region. The aim of this exhibition series project was to map out the scene of
young contemporary art in the selected northern geographic area, advance its visibility and create new networking possi-
theme on many levels and deal with
bilities and information database for artists, curators and other creative professionals. contemporary and immemorial issues
such as identity, privacy, digitalization
2016: Thematic Call – Home 2017: Thematic Call – Alien Threshold
and exploration of the cultural and
Under the thematic call ’Home’, Young Arctic Artists 2016 Under the thematic call ’Alien Threshold’, Young Arctic
invited artists to investigate the idea of ‘home’ in human Artists 2017 invited artists to investigate the paradigm natural landscape.”
experience of our time and in all of its aspects – socially, of contemporary human alienation and experiences - Pilvi Keto-LeBlanc
politically, existentially, philosophically, sensorily, technolo- in all of its aspects. As the permeable membrane, life
gically and scientifically. transcends from one body to another and within one-
self lays our own reflection, an awareness that lives
A sense of home is perhaps an ambiguous and subjective consciously and unconsciously, collectively – yet alone.
concept, a utopia of a safe place where one can be comple-
tely oneself – at home. It’s a place and a non-place, a space Alien threshold is a zone of infinite dichotomies where
defined by ideas, feelings and history, a material manifesta- all possible odds exist, but inevitably become negoti-
tion of identity. As a melting point of personal geography, ated into phenomena we can understand, categorize,
hopes, fears and dreams, home can tell an intimate story of accept and control. As a shadow of the status quo, the
its inhabitant existing within global movement, in a world in alienated shapes the depth of society by concealing its
constant change. current reflection and full potential both in content-
ment and in terror.
The first in the series included an international networking
meeting between local and visiting artists. The event inclu- Exhibition took place in Gallery Napa and Mustanapa
ded performance art by Tessa Astre & Aila Price at Sipola (Rovaniemi, Finland) 28.10 – 15.11.2017; it was mana-
Hall. Exhibition took place in Gallery Napa and Mustanapa ged by Artists’ Association of Lapland and co-curated
(Rovaniemi, Finland) 4.– 23.11. 2016; it was managed by by artist-producers Pilvi Keto-LeBlanc (Finland) and Lys- “We believe that the selected artworks are
Artists’ Association of Lapland and co-curated by artist- Ange LeBlanc (Canada/Finland) and Freyja Eilif (Ice- in intrinsic dialogue with each other and
producers Pilvi Keto-LeBlanc (Finland) and Lys-Ange LeBlanc land).
that the exhibition expresses the point of
(Canada/Finland).
view of a new generation of young artists
living and working in the arctic.”
Selected Artists 2016 Selected Artists 2017
- Lys-Ange LeBlanc
• Hanna Kanto (Sweden) The exhibition also screened video • Ieva Grigelionyté (Iceland)
• Iiris Tuisku & Juho Rantakari (Finland) works from the following artists: • Essi Korva (Finland)
Ananda Serné (Iceland), Rea-Liina
• Freyja Eilíf Logadóttir (Iceland) Brunou (Finland), Wendeimagegn • Sebastian Mügge (Sweden)
• Robert Julian B. Hvistendahl (Norway) Belete (Norway), Petter Solberg • Daria Orlova (Russia)
Pictures are from exhibition
• Kåre A. Grundvåg & Trond Ansten (Norway) (Norway), Marte Lill Somby (Norway), • Viktor Pedersen (Norway)
Marsil Andelov Al-Mahamid openings and events at Gallery
• Tessa Astre (Finland) (Norway), Kaspar Peters (Iceland), • Maiia Selezneva (Russia) Napa during the years 2016 and
• Matti Aikio (Sápmi artist from Finnish Lapland Atte Viljamaa (Finland), Ragnhildur 2017. Photos: Pilvi Keto-Leblanc,
• Atte Viljamaa (Finland)
currently living and working in Norway) Lára Weisshappel (Iceland). Karolina Kraska and Arttu
Nieminen.
18 19YOUNG
YOUNG ARCTIC ARTISTS 2019
Gallery Napa
5 June – 31 July 2019
Transmission of Knowledge is this year’s theme of the ‘Young
Arctic Artists’ exhibition. This year’s edition presents young
artists under 35 years old from Northern areas of Finland,
Sweden, Norway, Canada and Russia. The selected works
explore the questions of time before and after us. What do we
know about it? In what quantity does our family or inheritance
ARCTIC
store the memory, memories and knowledge?
“Works in the exhibition address the common theme in many
different ways. The selected pieces surprised us with such
a variant perspectives that we could not anticipate. Some
of the works are based, for example, in digital simulation
and some in exaggerated caricatures of contemporary folk
culture. Many of the works also have a starting point in the
cultural knowledge of northern peoples.”
- Johansson & Korkalo
ARTISTS
The exhibition is managed by Artists’ Association of Lapland
and co-curated by media-artists Ninni Korkalo (Finland) and
Panu Johansson (Finland). After the first open call under the
theme ‘Home’, Young Arctic Artists exhibition project is proud
to be included in its third and final year as part of the large
networking event Arctic Arts Summit 2019 held in Rovaniemi.
The project is funded by the Nordic Culture Fund, The Arts Pro-
motion Centre Finland and the Artists’ Association of Lapland.
Selected Artists 2019
• Jordan Bennet (Mi’kmaq- Stephenville Crossing Ktaqamkuk,
Newfoundland, Canada)
5th of June 2019 - 31st of July 2019
• Laura Heuberger (Sweden)
• Oleg Khadartsev & Sergey Kislov (Russia)
• Sanna Korteniemi (Finland)
• Marjo Pernu (Finland)
• Guro Rex (Sweden)
• Elina Waage Mikalsen (Sápmi, Norway)
Gallery Napa and Studio Mustanapa
Pictures from top:
Laura Heuberger, IN SILICO (2017), 2-channel digital video, 11’.
Photo: Laura Heuberger.
Oleg Khadartsev, Arctic Blackout, a/v performance, meditative and
analogue, by Sergey Kislov & 1999Q. Photo: Zhanna Guzenko. Gallery Napa, Kairatie 3, 96100 Rovaniemi
Guro Rex, Gmail-project. Photo: Guro Rex.
Open tue-thu 12-18, fri 11-17, sat 12-16
Young Arctic Artists ‘17, Pecha kucha event, November 2017.
Photo: Karolina Kraska. tel.+358 50 406 3632, lapintaiteilijaseura@gmail.com
Jordan Bennett, Msit Nokmaq. Photo: Jordan Bennett.
20FRINGE
Arktikum House,
Gallery Valo, Katve I and Katve II
4 June – 11 August 2019
Fringe refers to the outer edge, the margin or the initiative, but the project team decided to invite partici-
periphery. When something is regarded as peripheral, pants from Russia and the United States to extend the
marginal or extreme in relation to something, it often dialogue about the Arctic.
needs to be respected and protected. The exhibition
makes connections through art and crafts, showing works The exhibition is part of the Arctic Handmade collabora-
by artists who have studied the dialogue themes from tion among three universities – Iceland University of the
various perspectives with handmade techniques. Arts (IS), University of Lapland, (FI) and Sami Allaskuvla /
Sami University of Applied Sciences (NO) – as well as
The artworks shown at Fringe reflect on different aspects the Arctic Art Forum (RU). The first exhibition under the
of our existence today. In the exhibition, Sami artists who project was called Interwoven and shown in Rovaniemi
use craft and cultural knowledge in the context of Sámi and Reykjavik. The project has been beneficial to all as
duodji are featured with their indigenous traditions in an it has shed light on cultural awareness and provided the
interesting dialogue with artists who use handcraft tradi- participants with international experience through rich
tions based on contemporary settings. The exhibition also dialogue. The curators and the producers of the Fringe are
consists of a variety of threads to sustainability, including Ekaterina Sharova, Maria Huhmarniemi and Ásthildur
cultural heritage in relation to contemporary art. Jónsdóttir. The exhibition is funded by the Nordic Culture
Fund, the University of Lapland and Sami Allaskuvla /
The collaboration aims to shed light on cultural aware- Sami University of Applied Sciences.
ness and create rich Arctic dialogue. In this exhibition,
the artists come from Finland, Iceland, Norway, Russia The exhibition is shown at the Arktikum House and it will
and the United States. The project started as a Nordic be opened as part of the Arctic Arts Summit 2019.
Louise Harris, Forget me not, Gunvor Guttorm, My Way to Iesvuodat, Hildur Bjarnadóttir, Garden, 2011,
2016, felt. carafes with knitted cover and reindeer crochet wool, plant dye, size variable.
horn lid.
Picture on page 22: Alison Aune,
Sky, 2016, acrylic and paper on
canvas. Photo: 2018 UMD.
22 23TRANSACTIONS AND IMPULSIONS
University of Lapland, Faculty of Art and Design galleries
SEINÄ, KILO, KAJO, HÄMÄRÄ and LYHTY
3–16 June 2019
The Transactions and Impulsions exhibition shows works The exhibition proposes collaborative ways for art and
by invited artists from Alaska and other parts of the art education to promote greater individual and com-
USA, Canada, the Russian Federation, Finland, Norway munity awareness of growing environmental chal-
and Sweden. Most of the artists are partners of the ASAD lenges and to teach more sustainable ways of having
– Arctic Sustainable Art and Design Thematic Network, intercultural encounters. Some of the artworks were
which aims to identify and share innovative practices pro- shown in the ASAD network’s earlier exhibitions, and
moting sustainable and responsible models of art and co- some, such as the contemporary media-art focusing
operation in education and art-based research. on Arctic issues, are being displayed now for the first
time.
The exhibition shows how contemporary artists present
Vladimir Durnev, Fairytales of Komi, Komi local clay, white glaze, Torunn P. Dagsland, Sami blood / Sami Varra, 2018,
and construct the multifaceted Arctic in their art and art- The viewpoints from artistic responses to academic cri-
methal oxides, 80x80 cm. old weaving technique (honeycomb weave) and embroidery
(wool yarn, raw wool, silk, nylon and embroidery yarn). based research and also in an educational context. The tiques enable a cross-disciplinary approach to support
artists use a wide range of artistic and media tools, such as the art and cultural sectors in a circumpolar collabora-
Tanja Koistinen, from the series Potential partnership, 2018. installations, media art, photographs, videos, textile art tion, which is the key aim of the Arctic Arts Summit
Photo by Juliana Semenova. Ruth Beer, still from the video Intersections, video with sound. and posters. Some of the artists use traditional 2019. The Transactions and Impulsions exhibition aims
materials, techniques and colours and ancient to help deepen the public’s understanding of our joint
symbols but in a contemporary context. The art- Arctic – its beauty, diversity and vulnerable nature, as
works raise questions and offer fresh perspec- well as its strength and sustainable possibilities. The
tives on crucial Arctic issues such as climate curators of the Transactions and Impulsions exhibition
change, plastic pollution, advocacy for considera- are Mirja Hiltunen and Timo Haanpää.
tion of land-based knowledge and environmental
responsibility. At the same time, the exhibition The exhibition is shown in the Faculty of Art and De-
shows how artist, designers and art educators sign galleries at the University of Lapland, Rovaniemi,
can become co-authors of local makers by com- Finland and it will be opened as part of the Arctic Arts
menting on and refining the living culture and Summit 2019.
visual appearance of the North.
Charles Licka & Jeanne Ilgen, Siren Surge II.
Photo: John E. Lester / Flickr CC.
24 25Artistic Programme
ARTS ACROSS THE ARCTIC
THE ARCTIC SOIREE by RUSKA ENSEMBLE
Ruska Ensemble is a Finnish group of performing arts Beaivváš Sámi Našunálateáhter. The second part of the
founded in 2010. The group wants to create theatre trilogy is called Arctic Odyssey and it premiered at The
that breaks walls between fields of art, brings people Finnish National Theatre in 2017. Collaboration was in
together and gets its inspiration from both individuals between The Finnish National Theatre and the Green-
as well as communities. landic national theatre, Nunatta Isiginnaartitsisarfia.
The third part of the trilogy will see daylight in 2020.
The group is concerned about the ecological and cul-
tural future of the Arctic region therefore, it wants to To the Arctic Art Summit 2019, Ruska Ensemble
create a platform where indigenous people are brought brings northern traditions from the different sides of
together and everyone has a chance to express them- the northern area: Shaman violin of Tuomas Rouna-
selves in their own – under extinction – language. The kari, Greenlandic Mask Dance of Connie Kristoffersen
aim is to strengthen our identity and to find alternative and Chukchi Throat Singing of Anra Naw create to-
PLACE OF ORIGIN ways to approach and perceive the world. The focus is gether The Arctic Soiree of Ruska Ensemble combining
Rovaniemi Art Museum on the future of the Arctic people and their Northern memorable bites of Ruska Ensemble’s works. All the
19 October 2018 – 9 June 2019 environment. three artists performed in Arctic Odyssey, the perfor-
mance which has been performed both in Finland and
Rovaniemi Art Museum has produced an exhibition of the contemporary Ruska Ensemble’s first production was a collabora-
in Greenland.
Native art of Alaska in collaboration with the Anchorage Museum, Alaska. tion with Kokkola City Theatre, The Last Morning Star
The exhibition shows art of indigenous people, focusing on the high quality (2011). The first part of a trilogy handling Arctic mat-
The Arctic Soiree by Ruska Ensemble is performed
and challenging works from the collection of the Anchorage Museum. ters, Áillohaš – The Son of the Sun premiered at The
on Wednesday 5th of June in Lappia Hall.
Finnish National Theatre in 2014. It was a collaboration
The Anchorage Museum’s collections exist primarily as a means of fulfilling
with The Finnish National Theatre and the Norwegian www.ruskaensemble.fi
their mission to collect, preserve, exhibit and interpret cultural materials
which illustrate the art and history of Alaska and the circumpolar North. The
Photo: Rimma Lillemägi
Museum has important collections of Alaska Native artifacts, historical and
contemporary artwork, and objects that illustrate Alaska’s history. The Alas-
ka Native collections are the largest component of the Anchorage Museum’s
collections. The Museum is particularly proud of its strong collection of con-
temporary Alaska Native art which contains works by Alvin Amason, Rebecca
Lyon, Da-ka-xeen Mehner, Erica Lord, Larry Beck, Nicholas Galanin and Sonya
Kelliher-Combs as well as many others.
The exhibition makes both art and cultural heritage of the Arctic available
and enables the better understanding of Northern art. Some of the Alaska
Native art speaks of the cultural heritage in a whisper; some call out in a
loud, clear voice.
The exhibition is funded by Anchorage Museum, Jenny ja Antti Wihuri Founda-
tion, Nordisk Kulturfond, Nordic Culture Point, US Embassy and Rovaniemi
Art Museum Friends.
Text by Riitta Kuusikko
Pictures from top:
Da-ka-xeen Mehner, Being the Song, 2012. Photo: Anchorage Museum.
Rebecca Lyon, Women of the North, 2004. Photo: Anchorage Museum.
Sonya Kelliher-Combs, Goodbye. Photo: Adam Eronen Piper / Rovaniemi Art Museum.
Place of Origin exhibition view. In front the sculpture by Lawrence Ahvakana,
Man With the Burden (1974). Photo: Adam Eronen Piper / Rovaniemi Art Museum.
26 27You can also read
