My art is a journey into contemporary societal and cultural questions related to humanity, nature, gender, and relations. I work within visual languages that intertwine traditional folk art forms with modern expressions. I use a variety of media, including painting, drawing, installations, and diverse materials, to create works that weave together profound cultural and ecological themes.
In my work, I explore how communities and individuals experience gender, sexuality, and the taboos that often lie hidden behind cultural practices and traditions. I also examine our relationship with nature and the environment—how we, as humans, understand and live with our connection to nature. My art is a research expedition that challenges established thought patterns and invites new ideas and conversations.
I believe that art has the power to uncover hidden structures and open space for dialogue. I aim to deconstruct societal taboos and concepts, such as beliefs around femininity, sexuality, and shame. At the same time, I seek to highlight positive, life-affirming aspects—humanity’s ability to grow, evolve, and reconnect with one another and the world around us.
My approach to creating art is to build layered, colorful works that blend traditional artistic techniques like acrylic painting and drawing with playful and bold experimentation using textures and materials such as sand, cotton, and glitter. I use vibrant colors and forms to express both playfulness and depth. My art is rich and dynamic, drawing from both historical traditions and contemporary culture.
Within the framework of folk traditions and mythology, I make observations about human behavior, memory, and the landscape. My works do not depict humans themselves, but rather represent the surrounding world and the culture that shapes us. They invite the viewer to reflect on how human relationships with oneself, other species, and the environment are constantly changing.
Through art, I share my thoughts and provoke discussions about important and current topics. I believe that art has the power to create meaningful connections and influence people’s thinking—creating space for reflection and new perspectives. I hope my works inspire viewers to question and discover new, bolder ways of understanding the world and themselves.
Minttu Saarinen
