Rudolf Koivu - A Fairytale Illustrator

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

The magnificent illustrations are comprehensively displayed not only as original works but also strikingly in various publication formats. The exhibition for the whole family focuses not only on visuality but also on the presentation methods of the illustrations and their storytelling. It includes, among other things, excerpts from fairy tales illustrated by Koivu. Visitors can also discover the Artist on a deeper level. Personal photographs reveal the curtain behind the artist's persona.

Through a difficult childhood, Rudolf Koivu grew to become one of Finland's most beloved illustrators, whose work still fascinates viewers 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. This is also a child's perspective: curious, wondering at the world, and excited by what they see. Koivu was able to see things through a child's eyes. An Adult may also find deeper narrative levels in the pictures.

The exhibition is further complemented by a collection located in Valamo Monastery's Library, where Rudolf Koivu's graphic results are visible as, for example, calendar illustrations, postcards, and book cover art. In conjunction with the Exhibition, a small book has been Published, which presents Rudolf Koivu's life and illustration work. The free exhibition in the Library is open during the Library's Visiting hours.

The exhibition is on display Until 15.1.2027 and it has been produced in collaboration with the Amer Culture Foundation and the Tuusula Art Museum.

Exhibition and Monastery Museum open 1.6-30.8 Mon-Sun 10-17 and 31.8-30.9 Sun-Thu 10-15, Fri-Sat 10-17 Note! The Exhibition is closed on Wed 9.9)

1.10.2026-15.1.2027 Mon-Sun 10-15

Entrance fee 12 € / Adult. Free for children under 18.

Entry to the Monastery Museum also included with the same ticket.