The premise of this exhibition is the theme of power and violence that seem to be a part of humanity. At the moment, for example, in Syria there is a bloody and violent struggle in process with the main reason being power. On a daily basis we are able to witness how power and violence are intertwined with cruel consequences. Power struggle, war and affliction as well as being a refugee has become everyday life for us – others grief and misery have been normalized for us. For refugees, who fall victim to power struggle, these kind of experiences from the war cause wounds. Healing of the wounds will last a long time – often affecting generations. Leaving scars to generations to be healed.
Reflecting back to our 100-year old Finland – Finlandia – The history of my own home country was bloody and painful, leaving scars to those who fought for independence and continued from generation to generation – healing and recovering takes time. Yet, it was not appropriate to talk about it then and still is not now. Our generation today acknowledges the truth and suffering at last, but inheritance and suffering of fighters has left the mark for this generation as well.
Through my work I am trying to crystallize and explore historical events near and far while trying to understand what can collective perception and experience of suffering teach us today? When is a war justified? What keeps a war going? How should war be understood and accepted? Do we accept issues without seeking reasoning behind the actions? Do we not take a stand on the issues that should be addressed? Are we taking full responsibility for common prosperity?
My work stresses inequality and the downside of society. The emotional reactions of frustration, rage, anger and anxiety that marginalized people’s experiences today. I hope, through my work, to increase social awareness of others suffering and add value to smaller things around us without craving power.
2-channel installation with sound
4K / HD Video / Dolby Digital 5.1
Duration 15’18 min.
Finlandia, 2015
Part I / Duration 15’18 min.
Finlandia, 2015
Part II / Duration 05’52 min.
Installation view at Gallery Sculptor, 2015, Helsinki