Paradise – Collection Kakkonen & Marianne Huotari, Ninni Luhtasaari, Pekka Paikkari and Armi Teva

The Finnish form is often perceived as strictly functional and reduced, even rather serious. Paradise tells a different story of sprawling, colourful and even humorous ceramic art. In this exhibition, the old masters of ceramics, from Juselius to Kaipiainen, meet some of the most interesting contemporary ceramic artists.

Some of the absolute classics of ceramic art have been borrowed from Collection Kakkonen, the world's largest collection of Finnish glass and ceramic art. Birger Kaipiainen, who had a long career at the Arabia factory, places his works between ceramics, painting and sculpture with their ornate palette. Elin Juselius' work is influenced by Eastern European folk ceramics, art deco and classicism. The multi-dimensional Tyra Lundgren's floridly light works exude airiness. Michael Schilkin and Taisto Kaasinen's animal figures are full of gentle stylization and humour.

In the past, ceramics were a borderline between utilitarian objects and art, but now they have taken on a strong role in art. Marianne Huotari, Ninni Luhtasaari, Pekka Paikkari and Armi Teva have been invited to Paradise for an independent dialogue with the older masters. They all represent the richer branch of contemporary ceramic art.

Internationally renowned Marianne Huotar's roots in textile art can be seen in her ceramic works. Ninni Luhtasaari and Armi Teva play with materials and art. Pekka Paikkari's works combine massiveness and sensitivity.