We are looking for events inspired by the artist Reidar Särestöniemi and his art, and that uphold the spirit of the artist, to be part of the centenary programme.
The event can be small or large, for example a panel discussion, concert, performance, workshop or online event.
Reidar 100 anniversary year
2025 will be the 100th anniversary of the birth of artist and professor Reidar Särestöniemi. Reidar Särestöniemi (1925-1981) was one of the most important visual artists in the country, who had a significant impact on the image of Kittilä and Lapland worldwide. Särestöniemi held successful exhibitions both at home and abroad, from Narvik to Tokyo. His works were in competition with private individuals and art collectors as well as companies and communities. The artist's success and public image also aroused prejudice, which was reflected in the prestige of the art scene in the South. But time has proven the enduring value of Särestöniemi's art.
The Reidar 100 anniversary year is a unique opportunity to celebrate and highlight the life and work of a talented artist in a worthy way. Interest in Reidar Särestöniemi and his art is high, which is reflected in the increased visitor numbers to the Särestöniemi Museum. New generations feel close to the subjects that were important to Reidar Särestöniemi. In his works, the artist dealt with his own identity, he took a stand for nature conservation and, as a member of a sexual minority, he felt the importance of promoting equality in society.
The anniversary year will highlight the life and art of Reidar Särestöniemi and highlight themes that were important to him.
The Reidar 100 anniversary is for everyone; everyone is invited to join in the celebrations in their own way. Reidar welcomed people as equals, ready to discuss and expand his world view. He wanted to express himself and make a difference for important causes, but he did it not in an aggressive way, but through art and interaction.
We welcome everyone to join us in making the Reidar centenary year a meaningful and unforgettable celebration of art and artists, of working together and making a difference.
ANNE KOSKAMO, Director of Särestöniemi-museum
The municipality of Kittilä is closely involved in the Reidar100 anniversary year - as a communicator, event organiser and supporter, and in the steering group work for the year. The municipality of Kittilä is involved as part of the community in the area, bringing people together and celebrating the cultural heritage of the region. We want everyone - both residents and visitors - to be able to participate in the events and atmosphere of the centenary year. We hope that active businesses and associations in the municipality can celebrate the theme of the year in their own activities.
Kittilä has a strong tradition of visual arts, and for many people nature is an inspiration. Other types of culture are also strong in Kittilä. All this creates a distinctive atmosphere in Kittilä. Kittilä has produced, and continues to produce, fine art of international standing, and Reidar Särestöniemi, together with other artists who have influenced Kittilä, has left an invaluable cultural heritage in Kittilä. Reidar Särestöniemi's life's work and the legacy he left behind in the minds of the people of the region are interestingly interwoven with the values of the municipality of Kittilä - nature, humanity, hospitality and pioneering.