Marje Viitala: Alkujuurilla ("At the Roots")

The sensitivity of the lines and the fairy-tale-like, mystical nature of the subject matter create a vivid surface where, through poetry and philosophical reflection, one can even encounter one's own mortality through a softened lens. The collective subconscious lies behind the symbolism of the characters.

The themes are blurred and dreamlike, flowing narratives. In the works, a bear longs for the lands of its ancestors, and birds fish for butterflies of dreams and daily life.

The imagination freely draws on themes from a dreamlike, surrealist toolbox.

Alongside metal graphics, there are linocuts that explore wholeness and brokenness in a mystical plant world and art textiles.

I use intaglio printing, developed in the 16th century, and relief printing, developed in the 14th century: etching and woodcut techniques. Occasionally, I experiment with other materials. This sets free my work from familiar steps and always awakens something new while supporting the old. Sometimes you have to go further away to get closer.

One of the main themes in my metal engravings is light in darkness. Light can be either concrete or spiritual. I draw my etchings directly onto the plate without sketching: I create my works with a flow mindset, giving the image space to breathe and letting my thoughts carry me away. It is important that the subconscious speaks freely. I work on the finished piece using monotype techniques and add points of light and tones. The work lives through each stage until it reaches its final form.

In linocuts, I am fascinated by strong, powerful storytelling and visual language. Light always needs shadow to come into its own. The images are surrealistic narratives with a touch of playfulness.

Marje Viitala is a third-generation visual artist and graphic artist. Viitala was born in Sastamala and currently lives and works in Tampere. She received her art education at the Kankaanpää Art School, specializing in graphic design.

Viitala has participated in exhibitions in Finland and abroad, for example in Portugal, Bulgaria, and Japan. Viitala's works are included in the collections of the Tampere Art Museum, the City of Sastamala, and the City of Nokia, among others.

Viitala is a member of the Finnish Printmakers' Association, the Finnish Wood Engravers' Association, and the Tampere Artists' Association. She also holds positions of trust in various organizations.

The studio exhibition is supported by the Finnish Heritage Agency.

The exhibition has been supported by the Arts Promotion Center Finland.

Exhibition at Culture House Laikku's Studio, Keskustori 4, Tampere.

Open Tue–Fri 9 AM – 8 PM, Sat–Sun 10 AM –6 PM. Free admission.