The exhibition takes place from 1 December 2023 to 30 March 2024 at Institut finlandais
Inauguration on 30 November, 2023, from 6pm to 8pm
Imaginary Garden brings together the enchanting works of nine emerging Finnish designers and artists. The mesmerising and playful pieces presented reflect the sculptural craft movement that is currently taking over the Finnish design scene.
Finnish design is often known for its ultra-functional and minimalistic approach. The new generation of creators are presenting a more colourful, fun and haptic way of doing things. Their creations embody current changes in the industry, as they reclaim the role of manufacturer, crafting their own small series and unique pieces. This results in works that are genuine in a new way, and blend together elements of crafts, design and artistic expression.
The exhibition showcases a variety of materials, such as shiny brass, bold and delicate glass pieces, tactile ceramics and soft textiles. Each creator works with their own primary materials using different techniques or combining other materials to come up with ever inspiring results.
Many of the creators featured in the exhibition are inspired by both the diversity of nature and the power of imagination. The use of natural materials and environment-friendly, artisanal production methods are at the heart of their work. In their hands, common objects become magical and bring beauty and playfulness into our everyday lives.
The exhibition is organised in cooperation with UU Market, a Finnish design collective and online gallery that promotes new Finnish design and art internationally. Together with its 30 members from different creative fields, UU Market produces events like fairs, pop up shops and exhibitions. They also represent Finnish design through retailers and other partners.
Imaginary Garden is curated by the co-founder of UU Market, Hannakaisa Pekkala.
Presenting the following artists: