The Contemplative Eye of Jonas Heiska – Quiet Poetics, Warm Humour

It arose in response to requests from visitors to the Artist’s Home of the Heiska Family, a small museum operated by the Museum of Central Finland. Many guests hoped to see additional works from the Heiska collection that are not permanently on view. The exhibition fulfils this wish by displaying paintings alongside photographs and artefacts that bring Heiska’s world vividly to life.

Contemporary critics described Heiska’s paintings as atmospheric, lyrical mood pieces reflecting the artist’s shifting sensibilities. He has been called both a “painter of twilight” and a “poet of lonely traces.” His work centres on the landscapes of Central Finland, scenes of everyday rural life, and views of his hometown, Jyväskylä. A distinctive aspect of his expression is his warm sense of humour, evident in particular in his works inspired by the classic tale The Seven Brothers.

Where possible, the exhibition will also feature portraits of Heiska’s teachers and fellow students, offering insight into his artistic network and connections within the art world of his time. The presentation coincides with the 2026 launch of a development project at the Artist’s Home of the Heiska Family. Throughout the exhibition period, guided tours and small-cale events will take place at the artist’s home, located adjacent to the museum.