Symbiosis

Bringing untamed nature into the museum, this international group exhibition delves into the mysterious interactions between species, presenting fresh and vibrant works that illuminate the relationships between humans, other organisms, and the environment in unexpected ways. Nature and human existence are approached playfully, as intricate webs of interspecies interdependence. 

The featured artists explore nature’s diverse networks – especially those of the forest – through mediums including installation, painting, sculpture, ceramics, 3D animation, and photography. Some works are literally alive: visitors are invited, for example, to sow seeds and nurture growing trees. The themes, materials, methods, and life cycles of the artworks reflect the artists’ creative responses to the sustainability challenges of our time. 

Symbiosis awakens new perceptions of nature and humanity, drawing together ancient wisdom, scientific understanding, and radical artistic insight. 

The artists in the exhibition

Liina Aalto-Setälä, Gerbrand Burger / Thinking Forest, Eyes as Big as Plates (Karoline Hjorth & Riitta Ikonen), Alma Heikkilä, Kim Laybourn, nabbteeri, Raimo Saarinen and Diana Scherer.

Photos of the artworks

Distribution of parts of Liina Aalto-Setälä’s work

Come and pick up an artwork containing a spruce seed!

Parts of Toukka horrostaa, a work by Liina Aalto-Setälä, are distributed to the public at a monthly distribution event. From the Toukka horrostaa artwork, clay pieces containing a spruce seed are given to visitors. The intention is for the artwork, which contains a spruce seed, to be planted in nature.

The distribution event takes place once a month at the Symbiosis exhibition at the Brewery galleries.

Planting instructions

Bury the work in the ground with the seed facing up, cover lightly with soil. Plant in May or late October. If planting in May, water generously and continue watering weekly. If planting in October, let rest over the winter without watering. 

Schedule for sharing events 

Sat 16 May, 11:00–14:00
Sat 27 June, 11:00–14:00
Sat 18 July, 11:00–14:00
Sat 15 Aug, 11:00–14:00
Sat 5 Sept, 11:00–14:00
Sat 17 Oct, 11:00–14:00