Sami Leutola
My exhibition consists of works in which I explore the manifestations, layers, and problems of humanity through painting, sculpture, various material experiments, and conceptual symbols. Views from the Romantic era also leave their mark on the interpretation of the works.
By this, I mean the idea that emphasizes emotions, imagination, freedom, the significance of nature, interest in the spiritual world, dream imagery, the darker side of the human soul, and other “unusual” aspects. The subjects of the images are thus both an expression of freedom, fantasy, dreams, the unknown, passion, and more.
In my paintings, organic patterns and themes appear. They are partially controlled and partially freely created. It’s about controlled chaos—freedom from the chains of reason and a pure surrender to the realm of chance and instincts. Simply put, a celebration of life. The “external” objects in the images hint at opening or closing, stepping in or remaining outside, as well as delimiting or leaving boundaries undefined. At the same time, I reflect on the significance of the opening or closing of the image. The aim of my research is to find various border spaces that are difficult for humans to cross or escape from.
The sculptures also approach their themes with a thought of freedom. For example, Bacterium is an experiment towards expressive sculpture, with the theme of certain types of bacteria that live as parasites, thus being harmful yet beneficial or even essential to their host. With this, I wish to show a connection to humans as well. Humanity in Bacterium is found in the essential connection between them, despite the fact that a two-legged bacterium is forming inside the head of a three-legged one, and vice versa. These organisms are interconnected. I refer here to the biological truth of the connection between all living beings, the drive for reproduction, and the necessity of this connection. At the same time, the purpose of the work is to reflect on the different levels and limitations of humanity, which are difficult or even impossible to shake off.
My methods and the diversity of materials don’t adhere to a uniform visual code; instead, each work is made with the appropriate material or medium for it.
Thus, I use several different materials in my works. Therefore, many techniques might combine in a single work. My tools have included, among others, painting, photography, and various sculpting materials such as wood, concrete, plaster, polyurethane, etc.
This text was created with AI assistance