Year 2025 will be the 100th anniversary of the birth of artist and professor Reidar Särestöniemi.
Reidar Särestöniemi (1925-1981) was one of the most important visual artists in the country, who had a significant impact on the image of Kittilä and Lapland worldwide. Särestöniemi held successful exhibitions both at home and abroad, from Narvik to Tokyo. His works were in competition with private individuals and art collectors as well as companies and communities.
The artist's success and public image also aroused prejudice, which was reflected in the prestige of the art scene in the South. But time has proven the enduring value of Särestöniemi's art.
We are looking for events inspired by the artist Reidar Särestöniemi and his art, and that uphold the spirit of the artist, to be part of the centenary programme. The event can be small or large, for example a panel discussion, concert, performance, workshop or online event. Read more: reidar100.fi
The municipality of Kittilä is closely involved in the Reidar100 anniversary year - as a communicator, event organiser and supporter, and in the steering group work for the year. The municipality of Kittilä is involved as part of the community in the area, bringing people together and celebrating the cultural heritage of the region. We want everyone - both residents and visitors - to be able to participate in the events and atmosphere of the centenary year. We hope that active businesses and associations in the municipality can celebrate the theme of the year in their own activities.
Kittilä has a strong tradition of visual arts, and for many people nature is an inspiration. Other types of culture are also strong in Kittilä. All this creates a distinctive atmosphere in Kittilä. Kittilä has produced, and continues to produce, fine art of international standing, and Reidar Särestöniemi, together with other artists who have influenced Kittilä, has left an invaluable cultural heritage in Kittilä. Reidar Särestöniemi's life's work and the legacy he left behind in the minds of the people of the region are interestingly interwoven with the values of the municipality of Kittilä - nature, humanity, hospitality and pioneering.
