Rudolf Koivu - Fairytale illustrator

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

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 will focus on the presentation of the illustrations and their storytelling. It includes, among other things, 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.

Through a difficult childhood, Rudolf Koivu grew into one of Finland's most beloved illustrators, whose handiwork still captivates viewers today. Rudolf Koivu's illustrations are beautiful and mystical, but also strongly exaggerated. 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 illustrations.

The exhibition is also complemented by an ensemble to be placed in the library of the Valamo Monastery, where Rudolf Koivu's graphic results appear, among other things, in the illustrations of calendars and the cover art of books. A small book will be published in connection with the exhibition, which presents 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.