In a Local Gallery space in Helsinki, Antrei Hartikainen unveils "TRACES", a design-oriented exhibition offering visitors an in-depth look at the intricate relationship between humans and nature, examined through different scales, shapes, and textures.
"TRACES" stands as a vivid portrayal of landscapes shaped by human touch, unraveling across a series of detailed works that echo the changes brought about by shifting seasons, and the dance of light and shadow on the perception of environments. The meticulous design approach beckons attendees to view nature from various distances and perspectives, with each piece altering its narrative depending on the vantage point.
The exhibition plays host to a rich variety of works, each bearing the marks of detailed machining and surface treatments, showcasing the renewability and durability of nature while highlighting its fragility and uniqueness. The craftsmanship elucidates the dual characteristics of strength and fragility in nature, employing a range of materials treated to reflect these traits effectively.
An integral part of the exhibit is the exploration of growth in its different forms, emphasizing the vital role of soil and growth conditions. The artworks depict traces of deviations and alterations retained in both individuals and environments, a testament to the past and a precursor to future transformations.
Complementing the visual narrative is a self-playing acoustic sound piece curated by Lauri Porra. This sound installation envelops the gallery, seamlessly merging with the visual exhibits to create a harmonized space where sight and sound interact, enhancing the sensory experience of the visitors.
Antrei Hartikainen, born in 1991, is a Finnish master cabinetmaker and designer acknowledged for his work that exists at the intersection of functional products and fine arts. Based in the village of Fiskars, Hartikainen’s approach leans heavily on a sculptural methodology, drawing inspiration from the raw materials he utilizes, a process that brings out the sensuality and elegance intrinsic in the materials, emphasizing craftsmanship in each piece.
