Rudolf Koivu exhibition in Valamo in 2026

RUDOLF KOIVU - FAIRYTALE ILLUSTRATOR

A large-scale exhibition presenting the illustration art of Rudolf Koivu (1890–1946) will open at the Valamo Monastery Cultural Centre in March 2026.

The magnificent illustrations will be presented in a variety of ways, not only as original works, but also in spectacularly different publication formats. In addition to visuals, the exhibition for the whole family focuses on the presentation of the illustrations and their storytelling. Among other things, it includes excerpts from fairy tales illustrated by Koivu. Visitors will also get to know the artist from a deeper level. Personal photographs lift the curtain behind the artist's personality.

Rudolf Koivu grew through a difficult childhood into one of Finland's most beloved illustrators, whose handiwork still captivates viewers today. Rudolf Koivu's illustrations are filled with beauty and mysticism, but also with strong exaggeration. He juxtaposes, for example, beauty and ugliness, as well as fear and courage, which lead the viewer into an enchanted world where everything is possible. This is also the perspective of a child: curious, wondering about the world and excited by what he sees. Koivu was able to see things through the eyes of a child. Adults may also find deeper levels of narrative in the images.

The exhibition is also complemented by a collection to be placed in the Valamo Monastery library, where Rudolf Koivu's graphic results appear, among other things, as illustrations for calendars and book covers. A small book will be published in connection with the exhibition, presenting Rudolf Koivu's life and illustration work.

The exhibition will be on display until the end of 2026 and has been produced in collaboration with the Amer Cultural Foundation and the Tuusula Art Museum.

Exhibition open 28.3 - 31.12.2026.

Admission fee 12 € / adult. Under 18s free.

The same ticket also includes admission to the monastery museum.