Pictorialism- the Dawn of Photographic Art

Pictorialism – the Dawn of Photographic Art introduces the nearly forgotten style and aesthetic movement in photographic arts which inspired photographers in Finland in the early decades of the 20th century. Known for their wistfully beautiful aesthetics, the pictorialists strived to make photography an accepted form of artistic expression. Individuality and creativity blossomed particularly at the printing stage, during which various techniques suitable for image processing were favoured.

Impression remains – Helsinki Darkroom Festival

Film photography is still alive even though digital photography is the mainstream in photography nowdays. Darkroom development is increasing in popularity, especially among young photographers. The significance of art and self-expression are highlighted in these marginal methods.

Impression Remains, the main exhibition of Helsinki Darkroom Festival that is organized for the first time, celebrates current darkroom art and the creative possibilities of analog photography.

The participants will walk through the exhibition. They will be free to discover the artworks for themselves. Following the tour, they will be introduced to the method of photo-transferring. The transfer technique takes the ink from a laser printed surface and makes it a part of a new surface. The resulting effect is a dream-like or "mysterious" work of art. Additional applications of media can be applied over the image for further embellishment, if so desired since the image is now essentially embedded into the "painting".

It is encouraged that participants bring two or more colour, laser printed images of one or more pictures that they would like to transfer.

The duration of the workshop is approximately one and a half hour. The maximum number of participants is 10 for every workshop or tour and safety distances will be observed. The event is held in English. The event is open for young adults and adults.

During or after the workshop, participants are encouraged to share their photos on Instagram using the hashtags: #valokuvamuseo, #piktorialismi #piktorialism

Zara Asgher is an interdisciplinary visual artist and educator from Pakistan. She has participated in a group shows in Pakistan, Nepal, UAE, and India. She is currently completing her M.A. in Nordic Visual Studies and Art Education at Aalto University, Finland. Zara Asgher's practice is influenced by the themes of gender and sexuality and their relationship with public spaces.

A confirmation email and additional information will be sent to those who have successfully purchased the ticket. (NB: Please check your spam folder!) Please let us know if you cannot attend so the vacant spot can be given those who are on the waiting list.

We abide by the safer space principles in all our events.

Cover photos:

1. Alfred Nybom: Nuori nainen, 1905 / Suomen valokuvataiteen museon kokoelma.
2. Sébastien Reuzé: SOLEIL BOREAL, 2021.