The Atheneum Art Museum in Helsinki, Finland, is presenting between 15 June - 2 September 2007 a impressive exhibition dedicated to Finnish Symbolism, focusing on the link between art and music. It is an invitation for the visitors not only to discover the works of art that have made Symbolism famous in Finland, but also to listen to this art. Several key compositions have been selected, with a wide variety of themes, ranging from human life to nature studies.
In Symbolism visual art and music, as well as literature, have always been strongly connected. Music was the main source of inspiration for Symbolist artists, as it was at the same time sensitive, emotional and it evoked infinite worlds. It was the same for composers, as the Symbolist influence meant that they took a visual approach to music.
Around 80 works have been selected, from paintings and drawings to prints, sculptures, works of decorative art and some musical materials. One of the best examples of the connection between art and music at that time is the art of the composer Erkki Melartin. The musical frame is provided by a selection of Finnish Symbolist music, which will play over and over again.
May 2007
