RURALIA: ART OF THE COUNTRYSIDE –
RURALIA: ART OF THE COUNTRYSIDE
June 9, 1999 – August 29, 1999
The Ruralia: Art of the Countryside exhibition, organized by the Pori Art Museum, presents an artistic perspective on the current discussion surrounding the countryside and its identity, viewed through the nostalgia of the past and the realities of today’s period of transformation. The exhibition expands the concept of the countryside into a cultural phenomenon, exploring how “rurality,” “agrarianism,” and “rusticity” manifest in contemporary times, and, most importantly, how modern artists approach this subject.
Some of the featured artists live and work in rural areas, while others tackle the topic from an urban or conceptual viewpoint. The exhibition includes interpretations of rural landscapes, its inhabitants, and domestic animals—all elements that create the image of the “authentic” countryside or at least the perception of what the “real” countryside should look like.
Ruralia also brings alternative perspectives to how the countryside can be experienced. The idyllic vision is juxtaposed with concerns about the future of rural and natural environments. It also sheds light on the internal challenges of small communities, especially through the lens of individuals who do not conform to societal norms.
The exhibition features photographs, paintings, sculptures, and installations by the following artists: Wim Delvoye (Belgium), Ger van Elk (Netherlands), Jaakko Heikkilä, Timo Heino, Niilo Hyttinen, Matias Keskinen, Karin Kneffel (Germany), Paul McCarthy (USA), Juha Metso, Kalervo Palsa, Maunu Tarkkanen, Tom of Finland, Pekka Turunen, and Miina Äkkijyrkkä.
Simultaneously, the museum café will host a rotating photography exhibition series titled My Countryside, showcasing views of rural Satakunta, both past and present.
Press Event and Opening Ceremony
The press event for the exhibition will be held at the Pori Art Museum on Wednesday, June 9, 1999, at 12:00 PM, with the opening ceremony later that evening at 6:00 PM. The opening address will be delivered by Regional Director Pekka Turunen of Satakuntaliitto, and the music will be performed by The World Mänkeri Orchestra.
Translated with DeepL.com