THE SPIRIT OF MEXICO – Raija Kuisma

Raija Kuisma’s works are based on a residency period spent in Oaxaca, Mexico, during May and June of last year. During this time, she also traveled to Mexico City and Huatulco.
Mexico is known for its crime and drug cartels, but Raija Kuisma aims to highlight another side of Mexico: the joy of life, vibrancy, colorfulness, and, above all, diversity. In Oaxaca, she met joyful, lively, and empathetic people.

The piece Home for the Happy Dogs is based on the everyday life of poorly treated dogs adopted by a family in their new home. Jean Foss tells the story of how she and her family found ten dogs to whom they have given a new home. The photographic works shed light on the dogs’ daily lives.

The Spirit of Mexico – a video work – is a documentary travel story from the 58 days of the residency. It was filmed with a small point-and-shoot camera in Oaxaca, Mexico City, and Huatulco. The music of the Satakunta-based band ShadeS accompanies the journey.
During her stay, Kuisma kept a painting diary, and part of this collection includes atmospheric paintings created using gouache.

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