Human-Nature

Artist list

Nicolas Cheng, Katharina Dettar, Janna Syvänoja

Human-Nature exhibition by Nicolas Cheng, Katharina Dettar, and Janna Syvänoja present humans as a part of other nature. The exhibition draws attention to the relationship between humans and nature and the problems related to it, primarily through materials.
 
The exhibition raises questions about human action and materials. What is the origin of jewellery? How much stone must be mined for one object? Where do the metals we use come from? What are the environmental and social consequences of cables buried in the ground? How to find a balance between humans and other nature?
 
Objects, and therefore numerous different materials, constantly surround us. However, the raw materials behind the objects are easily forgotten. This exhibition offers an opportunity to reconnect the materials and their sources.
 
In the exhibition, the artists closely interact with their materials, such as feathers picked up from the ground or quarried stone. The materials are the physical building materials of the artworks. However, at the same time, they are part of our immediate environment and everyday life, as well as extensive global networks and cultural and social meanings.

Nicolas Cheng’s (SE/HK) work considers the 'response-ability' of jewellery and craft and its role in a material world that is disrupted by human-caused phenomena. His artistic practice is interwoven with studio-based work, artistic research, co-curated exhibition projects, and long-term collaboration work – Conversation Piece.
 
Katharina Dettar (DE/UK) explores the notions of jewellery and objects through materials. Having an interest and awareness in the origin of these, part of her work investigates themes such as waste, sustainability, and nature.
 
Janna Syvänoja (FI) seeks balance and interaction between humans and other nature. Her artistic work highlights the relationship between humans and nature. She experiences human nature as an unbalanced relationship: “owing so much, giving so little back, that is how I find the human nature”.

Producer: The Finnish Jewellery Art Association.
Curators: Jussi Järvinen, Eija Mustonen & Nelli Tanner.
The exhibition is supported by the Arts Promotion Centre Finland.

Opening: 8th February at 5–7 pm