Encounters in staircases

Artworks by eight alumni from Turku UAS’ Arts Academy have been placed in two staircases in EduCity. The alumni are Henna Aho, Mirja Hanikka, Veera Järveläinen, Ville Kumpulainen, Benjamin Orlow, Salla Sillgren, Jari Silomäki and Ville Vuorenmaa. The entity of artworks consists of photography, painting and ceramics.

The artworks placed in two staircases in EduCity create an intimate entity. The theme of encounters is repeated in them.

The artworks feature characteristics of storytelling, and their materiality is varied. Some of them, like photographs, are escaping materiality − they take the viewer elsewhere. On the other hand, some of the works of art are very organic, material and present. The details in all the artworks make the viewer think.

Together with the works of art, the simplified architecture of the staircases create a dynamic and interesting entity. When someone is walking down or up the stairs, their experience of physicality is emphasized, and the quietness of the staircase also leaves room for thought. As a place, the staircase is a nonspace, similarly to a wasteland or emergency passage – creative processes are often born away from noise and attention.

The artworks were acquired from the alumni from Turku UAS’ Arts Academy via open call for portfolios as part of KampusART arts programme. The artworks are part of Turku UAS’ art collection.