ÄûÃʵ¼º½

News

Soil Laboratory Exhibition – Exploring the Dialogue Between Human and the Earth in Utsjoki

Soil Laboratory explores the relationship and connection between humans and the earth as a living landscape, challenging the Western tendency to view the earth merely as a resource.

Maarit Mäkelä & Mira Niittymäki & Vertti Virasjoki

Gallery Kellokas, Tunturintie 54, 95970 Äkäslompolo
26.1.–11.3.2026, mon–fri 9–16

Invited artists: Priska Falin, Amedeo Martinez, Sonja Dallyn

Soil Laboratory explores the relationship and connection between humans and the earth as a living landscape. The project challenges the Western tendency to view the earth merely as a resource to be exploited, seeking instead experiential ways of understanding land as a holistic, living agent. In 2023–2024, the working group lived in and moved through the landscapes of Utsjoki, observing, documenting, and collecting materials such as soil and stones. These materials were studied and processed through ceramic practices: clay slips and objects made from local soil samples were brought into dialogue with flowing water and natural forces. The project resulted in a series of works in which earth, water, and humans engage in mutual conversation, transforming together into parts of a living landscape and of one another.

Empirica – Research Group
  • Updated:
  • Published:
Share
URL copied!

Read more news

Three people walking in winter next to a sign that says 'Aalto University' with snow-covered trees and buildings in the background.
Research & Art Published:

The Finnish Cultural Foundation awarded grants for science and art

A total of 15 individuals or groups from Aalto University received grants
Aerial view of a tram on a curved track surrounded by trees and buildings in a cityscape on a sunny day.
Awards and Recognition, Cooperation, Research & Art Published:

Environmental Structure of the Year 2025 Award goes to Kalasatama-Pasila tramway

The award is given in recognition of meritorious design and implementation of the built environment. Experts from Aalto University developed sustainability solutions for the project.
A person sits on a fallen tree in a dense forest, surrounded by branches and foliage.
Aalto Magazine, Research & Art Published:

Everyday choices: Frank Martela, should we take happiness seriously?

Insights from an assistant professor and philosopher who studies human well-being and motivation.
Research & Art Published:

A survey on users' experiences of Mykanta in collaboration between Aalto University and Kela

Senior university lecturer Sari Kujala's research group is exploring, in collaboration with Kela, users' experiences with the Mykanta online patient portal and the MyKanta mobile application.