The Museum of Contemporary Art Kiasma has chosen Klara Kristalova, Benjamin Orlow, and Tori Wrånes to showcase the variety of identities through the lens of Nordic mythology.
The exhibition, set to be curated by Kiasma’s Chief Curator, Anna Mustonen, will invite guests to explore "a vibrant interaction between imagination and reality," bridging Nordic cultural traditions with wider international perspectives, as stated by her.
Scheduled to occur in the Nordic Pavilion Since 1962, Sweden, Norway, and Finland have had representation at the Biennale. The distinctive pavilion structure was created in 1958 by architect Sverre Fehn. According to Mustonen, this design "acts as an enduring setting that encourages conversation among art, culture, and architectural spaces."
Klara Kristalová is a Czech artist residing and working in Norrtälje, Sweden. Renowned for her "expressive sculptures" that merge fairy tale aesthetics with subjects like solitude, metamorphosis, and profound emotional complexity, she has gained recognition worldwide. Her ceramic creations have been featured in international exhibits, including shows at galleries such as Perrotin in Paris and Lehmann Maupin in London.
Benjamin Orlow is a Finnish-Swedish-Russian artist hailing from Turku, Finland. Currently residing and working in London, UK, he has showcased his sculptural and installation pieces throughout Europe. "His work delves into historical transformations, material culture, and how humans engage with constructed spaces. Often grand in scale, his sculptures convey feelings of isolation or reflect the continuous change seen in life."
Lastly, Norwegian creator Tori Wrånes spans various artistic fields as both an artist and a singer, merging her musical endeavors with sculptural installations. As stated in the Nordic Pavilion’s press release, "She crafts enveloping, frequently surreal settings that reshape our understanding of space and transform conventional stages into innovative ceremonies and ethereal arrangements."
The three nations take turns appointing the main commissioner. This year, it's Finland's turn, and the commission originates from the Museum of Contemporary Art Kiasma.
“Beyond their physical closeness, the Nordic nations have historically possessed a similar cultural background, which provides a solid basis for tight-knit partnerships within creative fields. These regions also hold several communal principles, including fairness and collective assistance. Such joint artistic endeavors bolster these ideals along with emphasizing how crucial art is to culture,” states Kiira Miesmaa, who leads Kiasma and will represent the Nordic Countries Pavilion at the event scheduled for 2026.
The Architecture Venice Biennale this year will commence on May 10th and continue until November 23rd. This event ranks among the foremost artistic gatherings globally. Taking place every alternate year alternately focused on architecture and art, participants include various countries showcasing their own exhibitions within national pavilions alongside the main showcase.
A number of countries showcasing their work at the Biennale participate within the Venice Giardini, which is an outdoor garden area located there. 30 permanent buildings devoted to showcasing national exhibitions. For the 2023 Architecture Biennale, the Nordic Pavilion presented 'Girjegumpi: The Sámi Architecture Library' by Joar Nango, highlighting the indigenous Nordic Sámi community.
