Finnish exhibition explores Nordic women artists and esotericism
More than 200 works by 50 artists feature in the Ateneum Art Museum exhibition, which runs until 28 February 2027.
Women artists’ engagement with spiritual beliefs and alternative forms of knowledge is the focus of an exhibition at Ateneum Art Museum, part of the Finnish National Gallery. “Arcana Borealis – Northern Women and Esotericism” covers work from the Nordic region and Sápmi, spanning the 19th century to the present.
Hilma af Klint, Tyra Kleen and Tove Jansson are among the 50 artists represented. The selection of more than 200 works ranges from textiles and ceramics to metal engravings, stained glass and mosaics.
Co-curator Dr Marja Lahelma, Chief Curator at Ateneum Art Museum, said accounts of modern art’s relationship with esotericism, occultism and magic had largely centred on celebrated men. The exhibition instead emphasises women and collaborative practice.
Fellow co-curator Dr Nina Kokkinen of the University of Turku said this perspective challenges distinctions between spiritual practice, art and craft, as well as individual and collective creation. The exhibition also considers Sámi duodji, a craft tradition connecting spirituality, knowledge handed between generations and values concerning nature.
