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Art always has a story to tell, whether it be the story or anecdotes of the viewer, the artist’s own story, or perhaps that of the people who are the subjects of the photographic art. But there is always a story. Sometimes it is clear and distinct, and at other times it contains messages for us, the viewers, to discover.

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I believe that the art of photography is as vast as that of painting or sculpture; there is always something new to experience, learn, try and interpret.

Just a few days ago, I had the chance to visit a photography exhibition which, like many others, tells a story and stirs up emotions and memories, especially when looking closely at each of those photographs. None of them had a title, but there was no need for one; taken together, they told that great story I’m talking about, which is surely very similar to many others that have been lived and are being lived today. In this gallery, every exhibition—even when the artist isn’t present is accompanied by a detailed explanation via posters or leaflets. That’s brilliant.

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These are raw images with a certain poetry to them, in which the photographer Karppenen creates a composition that documents the life of his own grandfather and so many others who sought refuge on the southern coasts of Spain, fleeing the cold and austerity of the north.

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All the photographs we see are snapshots of his grandfather’s daily life; in many of them, I seem to see scenes of my own grandparents, so it tells not just one story but, I believe, many. Snapshots filled with memories and melancholy.

Like his grandfather, this collection of photographs depicts the emigration of dozens of Finns and their daily lives, their loneliness, the passing of time, and the search for a place and a community. It all began when Karppanen had to travel to Fuengirola with his grandfather in 2024, as he needed help, company and care. This was happening to his grandfather, but also to many other pensioners in a care home.

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One can see a life without luxuries, portraits imbued with sensitivity, and social issues. This exhibition, entitled “Land of Dreams”, is part of a larger project analysing the social and cultural themes of Finland, with the central focus on industrial decline and the emigration of many elderly people.

Documentary photography that is authentic, genuine, spontaneous, emotive and with a personal touch.

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Karppenen is a Finnish photographer, filmmaker and writer with a long track record in various museums regarding long-term documentary photography. He has won awards and his work forms part of major collections. He has made experimental short films for international festivals and is currently working on his first feature film.

This exhibition was organised in collaboration with the Halmetoja Gallery, which specialises in Finnish contemporary art and champions artists who portray the world with authenticity.

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The exhibition featured a large number of photographs, all in square format, something I don’t see very often but which looked excellent in this arrangement; in each one I could see things from the past, even from my own family photographs, such as village houses, kitchen utensils, interior doors, furniture and more.

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The atmosphere there is very moving; each photo tells a story, but together they tell the story of many people and even many ancestors, regardless of nationality. Many people can identify with this.

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Three of these photographs are my favourites: the first is the one of the kitchen, the second the paintings and the picture of the bull, and the last the pensive old man, which is also the one chosen for the exhibition’s cover. If there’s one that’s your favourite, I’d love to hear about it in the comments.

I absolutely loved visiting this exhibition, where every photo is a window into life itself. Thank you so much for joining me today; I wish you all a very happy Sunday. See you soon.
Amonet.

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All photographs are my own.