1. What themes do you pursue in your work and why?
My early work deals with subjective experiences, the presence and absence of love. I then moved on to examine the relation of the human figure and landscape and the artist’s gaze on the model.
In my current work I have returned to the autobiographical approach. On the other hand, I am interested in performative methods, a certain playfulness which I apply to both moving image and photography.
2. Tell us about your current project.
I am working on a new book to be published in November 2015. The book launch exhibition is at Gallery gb agency in Paris. Later there will be a signing at the publisher Kehrer Verlag´s stand at Paris Photo art fair. The book and related exhibition are titled Carpe Fucking Diem.
3. Do you have some advice for Photography students?
Quoting the words of John Cage in his Ten Rules for Students and Teachers:
“The only rule is work. If you work it will lead to something. It´s the people who do of the work all of the work all of the time who eventually catch on to things.
Always be around. Come or go to everything. Always go to classes.”
I want to add that school years are for experimenting and trying out different things. You don´t have to find your signature style during the second year of your Bachelor studies.
4. What was your most interesting experience when studying at the Photography programme in Aalto?
Most important was that all my professors and other faculty staff were practicing photo artists. Through their example we could observe what the life of an artist is like and see that it actually is a possible way of life.
Also, the department was very non-hierarchical. I first had Jorma Puranen and then Timo Kelaranta as professors. Their doors were always open, inviting us to discuss our newest work. Teachers treated us like younger colleagues. In my opinion that was decisive for the development of my artistic identity.
My fellow students Aino Kannisto and Maarit Hohteri encouraged me when I first attempted self portraiture. From them I learned the importance of shooting also between school assignments – to do your own stuff. During my school years I developed a working practice I still follow.