Kimmo Sarje: Abstraction on Nykänen and Suksimies

Kimmo Sarje: Abstraction on Nykänen exhibition and Suksimies (Ski-Man) mini-opera

Matti Nykänen played many roles, from ski jumping legend to pop artist to prison inmate. In Kimmo Sarje’s view, Nykänen was also a “headline artist” who, together with trusty journalists, often created headlines to help sell tabloids, sometimes by disorderly conduct and bragging, and at other times apologising for his behaviour. Nykänen, who died at the age of 55 in February 2019, had a flair for tragicomic drama.

In his exhibition Abstraction on Nykänen, Sarje interprets the life and career of the ski jumping world champion as a montage of headlines and geometric shapes through collage, installation and serigraphy. Sarje’s libretto for the mini-opera Suksimies (“Ski-man”) is also part of the exhibition.

The show culminates in Suksimies, composed and performed by Juha Haanperä, accompanied by live improvisation from Julius Haanperä. According to the composer, Nykänen’s contradictory life bounces sonically in many directions. He interprets this through both traditional and experimental means.

Yö Galleria

14.–25.2.2024, opening party 14.2. at 18.00

Tue-Fri 14.00-19.00

Sat-Sun 12.00-17.00

Opera performances:

14.2. at 19.00

18.2. / 24.2. at 15.00

Mini opera video performance:

22.2. at 17.00

After the presentations, there will be opportunities for discussion. In addition to the artists, these will include Professor Altti Kuusamo on February 18 and Matti Hintikka, content service coordinator of the Tahto Centre for Finnish Sports Culture, on February 24. After the video presentation on February 22, Professor Markku Kivinen and translator Jukka Mallinen will discuss the future of Russia and the Russian avant-garde.

Free entry