Whose Nature? – On Shared Trails

17.5.–7.9.2025

Nature and forests are deeply embedded in Finnish identity and remain central to the visual language of Finnish art. Yet our relationship with nature is far from unambiguous — while its uniqueness is widely appreciated, public discourse often emphasizes its instrumental value and the benefits it provides.

Whose Nature? – On Shared Paths invites viewers to re-examine this relationship from a fresh perspective. The exhibition seeks a more sustainable form of co-existence with the web of life and encourages us to reflect on how we perceive nature — and what we value in it.

The importance of photographic art in reshaping our relationship with nature is more relevant than ever. When nature is portrayed in conventional ways, it risks remaining ordinary and overlooked. The works in this exhibition go beyond simple representation — they offer surprising new perspectives, insight and quiet moments of presence. Could art inspire us to care for and act on behalf of the natural world?

Curated by photographic artists Harri Heinonen and Marko Hämäläinen, the exhibition brings together several acclaimed artists in contemporary Finnish photography. Their works prompt us to consider on whose terms we view, represent, and experience nature — and how art might foster deeper connection within a multispecies world.

The participating artists are Ilkka Halso, Harri Heinonen, Marko Hämäläinen, Sanna Kannisto, Ritva Kovalainen, Sanni Seppo, Juha Suonpää, and the working group Saxifraga: Julia Kemppinen, Kikka Niittynen, Pekka Niittynen, and Heikki Willamo.

The exhibition is supported by the Finnish Heritage Agency.