SPIRIT OF SAUNA

Red moon rise from the east under the northern lights while your sweaty body is still in shock after sitting in hot and steamy tent. A bat hunts at shore of a lake – you’re connected with the mother nature.

Saunas have a power of healing. People use to heal themselves by whipping their bodies in steamy saunas with birch whisks. You thank the spirit with a ritual when you throw heat on the huge pile of hot stones – calling the spirit of Sauna.

Not even a long time ago people use to give births in saunas – some would also take the last journey there.

Sauna is a sacred place to all Finns. Architecture reminds religious buildings. It’s a religion. We build saunas in the most creative ways… In a car, a boat, a tent or even a train. It’s the first thing we build in a new home, it’s the first thing we do after a long trip. It’s a temple where everybody is equal. All undressed and naked. Men and women. It’s confessional where the sins are washed away.

(2016-2023)