Überhund – The Fascinating Dogs of Art

26.5.–1.10.2023

Visual arts feature a surprising number of portrayals of dogs, but as subjects dogs are often so everyday and ordinary that we may not really notice them. Überhund puts dogs in the main role and makes them the focus of attention. It also tells about the long history humans and dogs share as species and about the unique bond between us and dogs.

Art portraying dogs has traditionally been associated with attributes such as protection, loyalty, companionship, assistance, and cuteness. The exhibition also calls attention to the challenges of the shared existence of humans and dogs. It asks questions such as ‘How do we view dogs?’ and ‘What is our relationship with animals like?’ 

The exhibition is curated by Museum Director Susanna Luojus. After Jyväskylä Art Museum, the exhibition will move on to art museums in Mikkeli and Kuopio.

The exhibition features works by the following artists: Emma Ainala, Maija Astikainen, Elina Brotherus, Birger Carlstedt (1907–1975), Alvar Cawén (1886–1935), Elin Danielson-Gambogi (1861–1919), Robert Wilhelm Ekman (1808–1873), Samuli Heimonen, Liisa Hietanen, Leena Illukka, Alpo Jaakola (1929–1997), Tove Jansson (1914–2001), Jyri-Pekka Juntunen, Pekka Ketonen (1928–2009), Anni Kinnunen, Anne Koskinen, Edvin Henry Landseer (mukaan), Jouko Lehtola (1963–2010), Johan Erik Lindh (1793–1865), Juhani Linnovaara (1934–2022), Teemu Luoto, Jussi Mäntynen (1886–1978), Fanni Niemi-Junkola, Tiitus Petäjäniemi, Laura Pikarla, Silja Puranen, Jacob van Ruisdael (mukaan), Elina Ruohonen, Stiina Saaristo, Pentti Sammallahti, Noora Schroderus, Elina Sarlin, Sanni Seppä, Mia Seppälä, Kim Simonsson, Kain Tapper (1930–2004), Tarja Tella, Pekka Turunen, Samppa Törmälehto, Hanna Vihriälä, Johanna Väisänen.

For the safety of the artworks, pets are not allowed in the exhibition. Assistance dogs on duty are welcome.