Social Portrait - Women Only

Because the history of art is the history of power.

The rich tapestry of art history has long been intertwined with the dynamics of power. Portraiture, in particular, has historically been reserved for those who occupy esteemed positions within the social hierarchy, often reflecting established norms and conventions. Yet, a closer examination of European history, as well as that of other continents, reveals a striking disparity in the representation and recognition of women within the esteemed canon of art, particularly within the realm of portraiture. It is within this context that my project, "Social Portrait - Women Only," strives to provoke contemplation and inquiry regarding women's historical absence and presence in the annals of art.

This project takes shape as a poignant long durational performance, wherein I meticulously draw portraits of women in public spaces, including art museums and galleries. Since 2017, this artistic odyssey has led me to explore countless museums and traverse several countries. Throughout my journey, a resounding truth has emerged: the act of being seen is inextricably linked to the essence of human existence. To emphasize this profound realization, I consciously divert my gaze from the paper and instead fixate intently upon the woman seated before me. Through this deliberate approach, my aim is to underscore the significance of making women seen, thereby granting them the acknowledgment they deserve.

The choice of art museums and galleries as the backdrop for this transformative performance is deliberate and crucial. By drawing women in these public spaces, with an audience gathered around to witness the drawing process, we collectively assert our presence and claim visibility within the contextual realm of art history. In this symbiotic interaction, the performance itself engages in a poignant dialogue with the historical trajectory of art, subverting established norms and challenging long-standing biases.

An integral aspect of my methodology is the creation of two portraits for each woman. This duality holds profound significance, extending beyond mere aesthetic variation. It serves as a symbol of authority, autonomy, and agency. Each sitter is empowered with the ability to select the portrait that resonates most deeply with her individual identity. Through this act of choice, the project fosters an environment where women reclaim their narrative, exercising their inherent power to shape their representation.

From 2017 to 2022, my artistic endeavor has seen me draw the essence of over 878 women across various countries, including Finland, the United Kingdom, Spain, Italy, and Japan. These encounters have served as the building blocks of a diverse and vibrant mosaic, transcending borders and capturing the multifaceted essence of women's lived experiences.

I am unveiling women’s visibility and it is an impassioned testament to the profound impact of art. It prompts critical reflection on the imbalances ingrained in our societal fabric, particularly within the realm of representation and visibility. As I breathe life into these portraits, the project strives to pave a path towards a more inclusive future—one where the faces and stories of women, regardless of their societal standing, are celebrated and eternally woven into the narrative tapestry of art's resplendent saga.

Exhibitions

Gallery Art Space, Tokyo, Japan 2019

HAA Gallery Helsinki, Finland 2021

HIDDEN Onoma Summer Exhibitions, Fiskars, Finland 2022

A.I.R. Gallery, New York City, The U.S. 2022

Kuvan Kevät 2023, Helsinki, Finland, 2023

Kuntsi Modern Art Museum, Vaasa, Finland, 2023-2024

Press

Amusa 23.5.2023

YLE Culture News 20.10.2022

Turun Sanomat 22.5.2018

Suomen Kuvalehti 14.6.2019