Dictionary in Pictures

The works in this exhibition can be viewed like visual riddles—try to figure out which words are hidden within them. A little hint: the words were once French, but are now Finnish. The answers can be found in the short texts accompanying the works.

I have long studied French loanwords in the Finnish language. I am particularly fascinated by the stories behind them, as well as the meanings that did not make the transition into Finnish. I have explored the origins of these words in my book "Sabotöörin siluetti – ranskalaisperäisten sanojen selityksiä"(SKS Kirjat, 2024). This exhibition now brings that narrative dictionary to life through collages made of paper and various objects.

The Finnish word "kollaasi" (collage) originates from the French "un collage", which derives from the verb "coller", meaning "to glue." In everyday French, this verb can also imply that something "fits" or "holds true." In my playful works, I bring together etymological research and paper cutouts, making them "fit" one another. I hope my collages offer the viewer both joy and a bit of knowledge.

Above in photo a work:

Perhosvaikutus/Butterfly effect

Behind the Finnish word "papiljotti" lies the French "un papillon", meaning ‘butterfly’.

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