Our collection exhibition A question of time reflects on the major questions of our time through art. The exhibition also offers fresh perspectives into Finland’s oldest and most extensive art collection and how it was built.

The exhibition entitled A question of time contributes to the public debate of our century through four themes: The Age of Nature, Images of a People, Modern Life and Art and Power.

Alongside the iconic, beloved classics of the Finnish artistic canon, the new exhibition also features more rarely seen works.

The exhibition is curated by Timo Huusko, Chief Curator; Marja Sakari, Museum Director; Mariia Niskavaara, doctoral researcher; Anne-Maria Pennonen, Curator; Anu Utriainen Senior Researcher and Curator; and Hanne Selkokari, Curator.

Four topical themes

The age of nature asks: how is nature changing?

Are we the masters of nature, who have the power to use other species as resources in our own lives? Or are we part of a delicate fabric of species, upon which our own lives rest? In a time when our environment is threatened by a climate catastrophe and mass extinction, we must turn to our national art treasures and ask new questions.

Images of people asks: how is Finnishness portrayed?

Many of the most famous works of the Ateneum Art Museum are associated with the spread of the 19th-century nationalistic view of Finland. The theme deals with the building of the Finnish national identity in the visual arts, and asks who is excluded.

Modern life asks: how does it feel to live in our modern time?

Throughout the 20th century, artists have depicted the conflicting emotions brought about by urbanisation and technological development. The works deal with subjects ranging from a belief in progress to anxiety, utopias and dystopias, the rhythm and joys of the city, and on the other hand, outsiderness and alienation.

Art and power asks: who holds the power in art?

This theme highlights passionate lovers and preservers of art, and wielders of power, that is, collectors, donors and museum directors, who have influenced the formation of the Ateneum art collection.

In addition to the beloved and familiar classics, the collection exhibition will include works that have rarely or never been seen in the Ateneum exhibition galleries. A question of time will remain open for several years with regular updates over time.