Welcome to the finissage of Rainer Paananen’s solo exhibition on Friday the 5th of November 2021 at 4:30 – 6 pm. During the evening Paananen will give a performance where the exhibted photographic work gets its definitive form through experimental play. He uses a unique one-string instrument which becomes his brush to burst formations on the photographic surface. Performance begins at 4:45 pm.
“In 2017, I was working with abstract photography and developing a new mode of expression for myself. I went back to analogue photography and got into a camera-less laboratory method of producing monochromatic, chromogenic colour prints.
At the same time, I was sketching my photographic pieces with a chalk line that can be used to draw completely straight lines between two points. The string is coated with chalk dye, pulled tight over the desired surface and then plucked sharply to release the powder. The function and sound of the chalk line reminded me of instrumental music that has been part of my life for 18 years.
I wanted to discover a way to combine sound with photography. I built an experimental string instrument that mimics the operating principles of the chalk line. By playing the instrument, I was able to explore the basic shapes and materials characteristic of my work.”
Rainer Paananen’s solo exhibition Sound of Alchemy presents the artist’s photographic pieces and installations from 2018–2021. Mirroring minimalism and conceptual art, the exhibition explores the idea of producing sound and photographs through alternative methods. Paananen’s photographic pieces are two-dimensional visual performances, condensing music into silence and colour.
He would like to thank the Arts Promotion Centre Finland for supporting the exhibition. He also extends his sincere thanks to designer and instrument maker Hemmo Honkonen for his cooperation on the instrument.
