Tukaattityttö 1914

‘Tukaattityttö’ by Tyko Sallinen is an oil painting made with brushes, pigment, and canvas. These materials were typical of the time, but the way Sallinen applied them speaks volumes. See how the paint is laid on thickly? This technique, called impasto, isn’t just about showing off skill. It gives the painting a tactile, almost sculptural quality. You can practically feel the weight and texture of each brushstroke. Sallinen’s expressive application of the paint, gives a sense of raw honesty. The visible brushwork is less about precision and more about capturing a feeling. Think about the labor involved. Each stroke is a deliberate act, adding to the overall intensity. It bridges the gap between the artist’s intention and the viewer’s experience. By emphasizing the materiality and the act of making, Sallinen challenges traditional notions of fine art. It’s a reminder that the value of a work lies not only in its subject matter but also in the labor, materials, and context that bring it to life.