Born 1984 I Lives and works in Tampere, Finland
In his paintings, Jouni Toni captures the impulses and flows of human emotions, seamlessly alternating between chaos and peace. He explores experiences, memories, and observations of the surrounding world. His visual world is filled with figures and archetypes distilled from memories and experiences that defy the laws of physics. He aims to create an experience for the viewer in which they are an essential part alongside the paintings. Based in Tampere, Toni employs various techniques such as oil, acrylic, and digital tools, creating a rich and multidimensional expression of his artistic vision.
At the heart of his painting process is digital sketching, which allows for a rapid-paced planning phase. Forms and color combinations emerge through numerous experiments. Over time, these sketches develop into an archive where old and new sketches engage in dialogue. Only a small portion of these sketches ultimately become paintings. It is impossible to replicate a digital sketch exactly on canvas; however, the effects produced by the backlighting of a screen can be mimicked on canvas by enhancing color contrasts.
Figure-like shapes hint at a visual language but remain open and multi-interpretive, challenging the viewer to find their own connections. These works present themselves as visual landscapes that can be either microscopic or vast, reflecting the connection between personal experiences and the broader natural world. They play with contrasts and forms, prompting the viewer to interpret shapes from the perspectives of nature and humanity.
Toni was awarded in the Royal Dutch Painting Competition in 2015 and the Art of Basware competition for young artists. His works are included in collections both in Finland and abroad.
