Helman heilahdus is a panoramic two-part work by artist Aarne Jämsä (beside Tarja Halonen in the photo). The work depicts pleated fabric, lace and sequins. The work of art is located in the platform area of Helsinki Airport railway station, 45 metres below ground. The sheets have been mounted on rock on both sides of the platform.
President Halonen said that the piece is an important introduction to all things Finnish, especially to international tourists.
“The trip from the airport to town is often the first contact travellers have with a new country and its culture. Every day, 4,000 passengers from around the world will travel through this station. It is a cultural achievement that they are already offered a glimpse into contemporary Finnish art during their train journey,” Halonen said at the event.
She did not forget the airport employees, either.
“Commuters also use the Ring Rail Line, and I think it is extremely important that we Finns get aesthetic experiences during such everyday moments,” Halonen added.
Jämsä's original drawing was done in coloured pencil, and the forms have been modified by computer to the new measurements and printed on aluminium sheets. The end result is about 690 square metres of meticulous drawing. The work is over seven metres high.
The work of art for the Helsinki Airport station was commissioned by the Finnish State Art Commission and purchased by the Finnish Transport Agency.
Helsinki Airport is also art port. Read more.
