EINARI HYVÖNEN: Penultimate Lap

12 April - 5 May 2024
Einari Hyvönen’s post-digital artworks are marked by the contrast between their light, happy visual motifs and gloomy content. But tragicomic humour makes it easier to cope with even difficult issues, such as the ending of a relationship, the loss of a loved one, or environmental catastrophe. “I present these subjects and images in ways that are intended to help viewers to overcome shame by dealing with them through laughter, and to remember that everyone else goes through similar grief at some point in their lives,” he says.

"Penultimate Lap" marks Einari Hyvönen's first solo exhibition with Makasiini Contemporary. Hyvönen uses references to popular culture to make his art more accessible, while, at the same time, prioritising artistic value and skill. The sketch phase is done with 3D modelling and image-editing software, and the resultant nostalgic digital images juxtaposed with traditional painting deliberately create an odd, skewed atmosphere.

Hyvönen lives and works in Helsinki. He gained his Masters degree from the Academy of Fine Arts, University of the Arts Helsinki in 2021 and has since taken part in solo and collective exhibitions in Finland and further afield in Europe. Hyvönen’s art is in the collections of the Finnish State, Kiasma, Oulu and Tampere Art Museums, and elsewhere.