Art from the Kalevala: Group exhibit at Community Arts Center

HANCOCK -- The Kalevala is a 19th Century work of epic poetry compiled by Elias Lönnrot from Finnish and Karelian oral folklore and mythology. It is regarded as the national epic of Finland and is one of the most significant works of Finnish literature.

Death and Rebirth, by Paul Osmak. (Photo courtesy Community Arts Center)

In connection with Hancock’s mid-winter Heikinpäivä celebration, twelve local artists have interpreted various scenes in a range of mediums to present Art from the Kalevala at the Community Arts Center’s Kerredge Gallery during January. The artists are Eileen Sundquist, Jack Oyler, Paul Osmak, Paul Olson, Eric Munch, Clyde Mikkola, Jan Manniko, Joyce Koskenmaki, Melissa Hronkin, Susan Hamilton, Bob Dawson, and Cynthia Coté.

War With Tree Gods, by Jan Manniko. (Photo courtesy Community Arts Center)

The exhibit includes paintings, a photograph, a pair of fur boots by Eileen Sundquist titled Aino’s Boots, a leather and clay doll by Joyce Koskenmaki titled Lemminkainen, and an arrangement of decorative jars of honey and encaustic block printing on rice paper by Melissa Hronkin.

A closing reception will be held from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 29. Everyone is invited to come meet the artists. Refreshments will be served.

The Community Arts Center is located at 126 Quincy Street in Hancock. For more information call (906) 482-2333 or visit the Community Arts Center Web site.