Untitled (Exotic Figures) c. 1958

This black and white woodcut is by Helmi Dagmar Juvonen. The process of carving into wood, removing material to create these bold figures and shapes, feels so determined, so wonderfully odd! I imagine Juvonen making this, maybe in one sitting, carefully scraping away at the block, each mark creating a strange, exotic, playful world. The figures seem to be both inviting and slightly menacing, their simplified forms and stark contrasts creating a powerful visual language. The texture, that slightly rough surface, makes the whole thing feel more alive, more immediate. That little figure at the bottom, with its arms outstretched, looks like it’s dancing. Or is it surrendering? Maybe it is both! Juvonen’s work reminds me of other self-taught artists who are driven by their own inner visions. It feels like she wasn’t trying to fit in, or follow any rules, and that’s what makes it so exciting. Artists are always in conversation with each other, and I love how Juvonen adds her own unique voice to the mix. It’s a reminder that art doesn’t have to be perfect, or even make complete sense, to be powerful.