Tuomas Korkalo – The Sea is Like an Empty Box

Artist Tuomas Korkalo uses observation and implementation to examine the properties of colour and light in his art. His abstract paintings feature reoccurring geometric patterns and compositions. Unreal coincidences and absurd turns of events combine in his colourful works. The basic elements in Korkalo’s paintings are colour, line and form. Using these elements, he creates an illusion of movement and space on a two-dimensional surface. In his work he allows for coincidence and absurd logic to create thrilling features in space and time. In his works Korkalo combines influences from colour theory and art history. “My work in abstract painting is a form of play and problem solving. Form requires another form, like colour needs another colour, in the search for balance. You must make a small incision into balance to activate the work.” The exhibition features paintings made with water colours and Sumi-Ink, as well as installations that play with the effects created by light, sound and prisms. The exhibition includes Korkalo’s newest works from the last few years. Artist Tuomas Korkalo (b. 1978) lives and works in Rovaniemi. Korkalo graduated from the Fine Arts department of Imatra Art School in 2008. He has participated in numerous solo and group exhibitions in Finland and abroad. His works can be found in notable Finnish art collections. Korkalo was awarded the Lapland Art Prize in 2021. Korkalo uses multiple techniques from drawing and painting to installations, and methods used in environmental art. Lately he has been expanding his approach into spatial works and murals. The exhibition has been supported by the Finnish Heritage Agency.