The exhibition 'Rugs on Drugs’ consists of hand-tufted psychedelic wall rugs. Aiming that each rug in the exhibition is a conversation starter for the visitors.
Deniz Hartikainen (b.1993) is a Turkish-Kurdish textile artist based in Jyväskylä. The ‘Rugs on Drugs exhibition on the Book Gallery is her first solo exhibition in Finland.
Hartikainen describes her process: "I am a Turkish-born rug-maker located in Jyväskylä, Finland. I turn my fabric illustrations into wall rugs using lots of colorful fibers and tufting/rug hooking methods. I enjoy the coalescence of traditional rug-making techniques with my whimsical designs. Growing up in Turkey and being surrounded by traditional folk craft, I have always been fascinated by rugs. The same goes for Finnish weaving culture. I wanted to elevate these local folk crafts by implementing my own perspective and designs. My rugs usually consist of drawing directly to the fabric and turning it into a rug, the whole process is very intuitive. I rarely plan anything. My fears and inexistent taboos I am expected to have as a woman are the starting point of my illustrations and I am always hoping that my textile work evokes diverse thoughts and feelings for the ones who see it."
Photograph above is Deniz Hartikainen's work called Vilpitön hymy (Sincere Smile)
