The Secret of Finnish Sauna at Hiroshima MOCA

Written By Esa Ylijaasko

The Secret of Finnish Sauna has opened at Hiroshima City Museum of Contemporary Art in Hiroshima, Japan. The group exhibition explores Finnish sauna culture through architecture, design, and visual art, bringing together works connected to one of Finland’s most meaningful cultural traditions.

I am honored to be part of the exhibition with my photographic work alongside Alvar Aalto. To see the work presented in the setting of Hiroshima MOCA is both humbling and meaningful.

The exhibition offers an international context for reflecting on sauna not only as a place of warmth and ritual, but also as a space deeply connected to Finnish identity, memory, and way of life.

Explore Finnish Sauna




More about the exhibition:
Tokyo Art Beat
ART iT
Musée Magazine

Esa Ylijaasko

Esa Ylijaasko (1989) is a Finnish photographer and visual storyteller known for his compelling documentary-style photography. His work often focuses on social issues, marginalized communities, and personal narratives, capturing the human condition with empathy and depth.

Ylijaasko's work often revolves around the themes of displacement, migration, and the struggles of marginalized communities. He is known for his ability to tell intimate stories through powerful visual narratives, often highlighting the resilience and dignity of his subjects.

Ylijaasko's photography is characterized by its raw and authentic portrayal of subjects. He often uses natural light and close-up shots to create an intimate and immersive experience for viewers. His approach to storytelling is deeply personal, often involving long-term engagement with his subjects. This allows him to capture nuanced and layered narratives that go beyond surface-level observations.

Esa Ylijaasko is a significant figure in contemporary documentary photography, known for his empathetic approach and commitment to shedding light on important social issues. His work continues to inspire and provoke thought, making a substantial impact in the world of visual storytelling.

He’s based in Lapland, Finland.

https://www.ylijaasko.com
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