We balanced out all the eating and drinking we did in Fiskars Village by going to see some art (because art – (eating + drinking) = balance). Science.
First we visited ONOMA, the cooperative of artisans, designers and artists in Fiskars. All members live or work in the village and the co-op organises exhibitions as well as running a store.
The buildings in Fiskars are so grand and old, they really provide a wonderful backdrop for all that’s on display.
In this case it was locally-produced homewares, jewellery, glassware and furniture.
They also had answers to problems you didn’t know you had – like how to store your eggs in a fittingly stylish manner.
There’s a cafe connected to the store and rooms out the back where you can sit and read.
Next up, we visited We Love Wood(s)!, ONOMA’s summer exhibition at the Copper Smithy.
Here, master woodcrafters such as cabinet makers and carpenters, teamed up with designers to create beautiful and practical objects for everyday use.
Some used traditional word-working methods, while others used modern technology such as laser cutting.
We moved through to an adjoining warehouse, where there were larger pieces and an installation consisting of a circle of speakers, each broadcasting a different forest sound.
The next morning we rose early & explored the area around The Granary.
We then went inside to visit their exhibition, Minun Kalevalani (My Kalevala).
The Kalevala is Finland’s national epic, based on oral folklore and mythology. It is considered one of the nation’s most significant literature works and is said to have played an important part in the development of the Finnish national identity.
In this show, 28 craftsmen from Finland, Norway, Sweden, Denmark and Estonia used iron to present different parts or interpretations of the stories.
We had a lovely time in Fiskars and strongly recommend a visit next time you are in Finland.
I particularly liked these guys, who managed to combine all the elements of the shows (wood + art + Kalevala + iron), putting us back in credit, just in time for lunch.
Upcoming event: Fire and Light 24.10.- 21.11.15
Special thanks to Kaisa at Fiskars Info who provided tips on where to visit and liaised with the galleries, who gave us free entry to the exhibitions.