Phytopia is a utopian narrative set in the Archipelago Sea. It tells the story of women's sailing culture and the prevailing blue-green algae issue. At the core of this body of work are young women – commanding sailing vessels, natural forces, and the gaze of the camera. These young sailors know the local waters like the pockets of their sailing suits—but the other life forms of the archipelago know them, too. Coexistence is enabled through reciprocity and a shared language – phytography – between the sailing women and the blue-green algae.
The exhibition is a collaboration between photographic artist Maija Annikki Savolainen and graphic designer Päivi Helander. The project stems from their shared interest in exploring regenerative ways of addressing sailing culture and and the environmental crisis of the Baltic Sea. Savolainen’s photographic works have been created mainly in collaboration with local girl sea scouts’ community from Turku. Sea scouting is a hobby centered on a strong connection to nature and it offers an equitable learning environment for young girls regardless of their socioeconomic background.
7.8.–8.9.2025
Photographic Centre Peri
The exhibition is part of the Archipelago Sea Biosphere Reserve’s Archipelago Sea 2025 year -program.
Photography, rope, glass and textile works: Maija Annikki Savolainen
Graphics: Päivi Helander
Textile plant dyeing: Pirita Lauri / Välitila Studio
Glassblowing: Slate Grove and Zachary Compton / Aalto University
Opening performance: Otso Havanto and Kristian Penttinen
7.8.–8.9.2025
Photographic Centre Peri
The exhibition is part of the Archipelago Sea Biosphere Reserve’s Archipelago Sea 2025 year -program.
Photography, rope, glass and textile works: Maija Annikki Savolainen
Graphics: Päivi Helander
Textile plant dyeing: Pirita Lauri / Välitila Studio
Glassblowing: Slate Grove and Zachary Compton / Aalto University
Opening performance: Otso Havanto and Kristian Penttinen
