My Path to Becoming an Artist

In 2020, I joined the hobbyist section of the Joensuu Artists' Association and began participating in group exhibitions. I have been a member of the art association Harha ry since 2021. Through Harha, I have been very active in exhibiting, and my work has been featured in various exhibitions.

Preparing for group exhibitions and working collaboratively have taught me a great deal. To date, I have held four solo exhibitions.

In 2025, I became a member of the Finnish Watercolor Society. The society’s 2026 annual exhibition was held at the Cable Factory in Helsinki, and my work "The Baltic Sea is Crying" (*Itämeri itkee*) was accepted for inclusion. This piece has also opened up new international horizons for me; it has been accepted for the "Salon International d’Art Contemporain" digital exhibition taking place at the Louvre in Paris in late October 2026.

My passion is also shared with my grandchildren. In the summer, we organize camps for them featuring painting, crafting, and acting.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, in-person courses came to a halt. At the same time, however, art professionals began developing online courses, which really sparked my interest. The instructors are internationally renowned, and the courses are expertly produced. I have also learned a great deal from art courses at the local adult education center.

“Art finds its meaning when someone looks at it.”

Watercolor painting has taught me a lot—not just about art, but about myself as well. I have gained new friends and new experiences. The courage to put my work out there for others to see has helped me grow both as an artist and as a person.

Art finds its meaning when someone looks at it. Step by step, I am moving forward and learning new things.

My heartfelt thanks go to everyone who has taught and supported me along the way.