Seeing Larissa Sansour’s fascinating work in the Amos Rex museum, Helsinki
The Amos Rex Museum, located in the heart of Helsinki, Finland, is a cutting-edge cultural institution that blends contemporary art, architectural innovation, and a rich history. Opened in 2018, the museum is an extension of the original Amos Anderson Art Museum, named after the Finnish publisher and art collector whose vision laid the groundwork for the institution.
© Images by Hiatus.Design
When we visited, the main exhibition was from Larissa Sansour, a prominent Palestinian-Danish artist whose multidisciplinary work explores themes of identity, memory, and the intersection of politics and culture.
Born in East Jerusalem in 1973, Sansour studied fine art in Copenhagen, London, and New York, and her experiences across these diverse cultural landscapes deeply inform her art.
The exhibition spanned film, photography, sculpture, and installations, incorporating elements of science fiction to comment on the Palestinian experience.
Her use of speculative narratives allows her to reframe political and cultural realities in ways that challenge conventional perspectives. By blending dystopian imagery with personal and collective memory, Sansour creates evocative works that are both universal and deeply rooted in her Palestinian heritage.
Central to Sansour's art were themes of displacement, belonging, and the erosion of cultural heritage.
The museum’s design is a striking blend of old and new, created by Finnish architects JKMM. Its main exhibition space lies underground, beneath the historic Lasipalatsi (Glass Palace), a 1930s Functionalist building.
Above ground, the museum’s iconic domes rise from the public square, creating skylights that flood the subterranean galleries with natural light. These domes have become a beloved feature of the cityscape, doubling as a playful urban space where locals and visitors gather.
Located near Helsinki’s main railway station and easily accessible, Amos Rex is a must-visit for art lovers and architecture enthusiasts. Its seamless integration of historical preservation and futuristic design exemplifies Helsinki’s reputation as a hub of creativity and design. Whether you’re drawn to its world-class exhibitions or its architectural marvels, Amos Rex offers a unique and unforgettable experience.
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