3-25 May 2025

“So long, old pal. You’re going to a different world now. It’s sure to be a better one, since no
other world could be as bad as this one is.” – Kurt Vonnegut, Galápagos

In Venla Ekebom’s works, layers and narrative serve as tools for exploring experientiality, the
connection between humans and nature, and the possibilities of painting and ceramics.

The exhibition approaches the themes of human history, environmental destruction, and
disappearance through responsibility and a search for a connection. Is it possible to have a
mental connection with otherness, with other species? Despite our limited senses, can we
receive knowledge from other species? Do we hear if we are spoken to?

In Ekebom’s works, forms emerging through imagination and the subconscious are combined
with knowledge. Perhaps the role of art is no longer to provoke thoughts in the face of a
disaster, but rather to help us grasp a phenomenon and add a dimension of compassion to the
discussion. Knowledge alone is over-simplifying, but through fiction and experience, we can
explore alternative ways of thinking.

The works examine serious issues through humor and sympathy. Absurdity, contradictions,
and deformities highlight the tragically comical situation, where humans themselves destroy
their living conditions.

Venla Ekebom (b. 1995) is a Helsinki-based artist with a Master of Fine Arts degree in painting
from the Academy of Fine Arts (2016–2024). She has also studied at Free Art School
(2014–2016). In addition to paintings, Ekebom creates sculptures and illustrations. In her
works, layers and narrative are tools for exploring the connection between humans and nature.

Contact details
https://www.instagram.com/venlaekebom/
venla.ekebom (a) gmail.com