Prowling about the Wonders of Satakunta Nature – The Nature Relations of the People of Satakunta

What was the connection between people and nature like in Satakunta over a hundred years ago, when forests, animals and supernatural beings were an important part of everyday life and beliefs?

The new exhibition at the Ark Nature Centre offers a glimpse into the local traditions, nature beliefs and animal symbolism of the late 19th and early 20th centuries in Satakunta.

The exhibition tells stories about the meanings of animals and forests in old folk beliefs – the respect for the bear, the protective role of the snake, and the mysterious forest spirits. On display are objects from the Satakunta Museum’s collections, archive material and stories that show how people used to see nature around them.

The exhibition also features new artworks by nature journalist and artist Minna Pyykkö, created especially for this exhibition. Her paintings and graphics interpret the human relationship with nature — both past and present.

The exhibition invites visitors to reflect on their own connection with nature — and to wonder what old beliefs might still live on today.