Rudolf Koivu - A Fairytale Illustrator

A major exhibition showcasing the illustration art of Rudolf Koivu (1890–1946) opened in March 2026 at Valamo Monastery's Cultural Centre.

The magnificent illustrations are comprehensively displayed not only as original works but also impressively in various publication formats. This family-friendly exhibition emphasizes not only visual appeal but also the presentation methods of the illustrations and their storytelling. It includes, among other things, excerpts from fairy tales illustrated by Koivu. Visitors can also delve deeper into the artist's life. Personal photographs open a curtain behind the artist's personality.

Rudolf Koivu grew from a difficult childhood into one of Finland's most beloved illustrators, whose distinctive style continues to charm viewers even today. Rudolf Koivu's illustrations possess beauty and mysticism, but also strong exaggeration. He juxtaposes, for example, beauty and ugliness, and fear and courage, through which the viewer is led into an enchanted world where anything is possible. Such is also the perspective of a child: curious, marveling at the world, and enthusiastic about what they see. Koivu was able to see things through a child's eyes. Adults may also find deeper narrative layers in the pictures.

The exhibition is further complemented by a collection placed in Valamo Monastery's library, where Rudolf Koivu's graphic results are visible in calendar illustrations, postcards, and book cover art, among other things. A small book introducing Rudolf Koivu's life and illustration work has been published in conjunction with the exhibition. The free exhibition in the library is open during library opening hours.

The exhibition is on display until January 15, 2027, and has been produced in collaboration with the Amer Cultural Foundation and the Tuusula Art Museum.

Exhibition and monastery museum open 1.6-30.8 Mon-Sun 10-17 and 31.8-30.10 Sun-Thu 10-15, Fri-Sat 10-17

Admission fee 12 € / adult. Free for children under 18 years old.

The same ticket also grants admission to the monastery museum.