- What themes do you pursue in your work and why?
The foundation of my artistic practice comes from the tradition of play, experimentation and chance. My work as a teacher leans on practical knowledge of how the information should be passed. Working as artist as well as teaching art are both part of the larger circle of learning, hand in hand and in symbiosis with unexpected ways. My goal in teaching have neither been to make the students to copy my work nor my style, but to courage them to strengthen which is natural for them and could produce most out of them - Tell us about your current project.
My current project is to bring photography and drawing closer together. I utilize the traditions of cubism and surrealism to which I feel connected to and have always been interested in. Right now I am living a very productive phase as an artist. The last time I experienced the similar productive drive in the mid 80´s. - Do you have some advice for Photography students?
What ever you do, believe in yourself and commit entirely. Never compromise. Your supervisors and teachers are professional working artists, they understand what is going on and they will support and understand you. Choose your own way regardless of current trends and learned traditions. Challenge your teachers and your fellow students to talk about the ideas and to explain their views thorough. Use the diversity of what the school has to offer, get wide range of information of the different artistic diciplines, art practice and art history. - What was your most interesting experience of teaching at the Photography programme in Aalto?
The most surprising experience is that, now after 40 year of teaching, I like teaching more than ever. Because of that experience I feel more natural to be relaxed, analytic and sharp. The best thing is when you see what kind of “bigger picture” each students is building out of their personal philosophy. This experience help you to see how diverse people are and what a richness that is. - What do you think is the most important thing when studying at the Photography programme?
The most important quality of a teacher is the open and curious mind and will to learn new things. Scandinavian tradition is based on equality and not on hierarchy. This improves learning. Learning is a life long road, sustainability is a virtue, don’t let the minor things discourage you.
