CLOSED: Come to Finland
Come to Finland – Paradise Calling exhibition, opening at the National Museum of Finland on 17 February, shows how Finland was marketed abroad before and after the country was declared independent. Travel posters and slogans painted a picture of a paradise where one could experience the fascination of untouched nature while also getting to know the progressive, international, and open Finnish society.
Posters were the means for getting the message around the world, much like the Internet is today. Adventurous European and American tourists were invited to try something different and incredible in the Northern country through beautiful pictures and tempting slogans.
In addition to famous artists, Come to Finland exhibition presents works by lesser known poster artists and their contribution in really putting Finland on the map. Travel-related artefacts and souvenirs from the collections of the National Museum have been showcased alongside the posters. Perhaps they can remind us ever so slightly about an event or place we once heard of or visited?
Approximately 100 vintage posters are presented, all of which are authentic first editions. In addition, posters created by modern day graphic and other artists for the purposes of the exhibition are also presented; images of how they see and feel the Finland of today. An open poster competition is also related to the exhibition: the best works are showcased.