The UPM-Kymmene Cultural Foundation is delighted to take part in the exhibition Helene Schjerfbeck and Venny Soldan-Brofeldt: Friendship and Crossroads in Their Artistic Careers at the Järvenpää Art Museum, on view from 29 October 2026 to 28 February 2027.
The exhibition explores the lifelong friendship between two pioneering Finnish women artists, their artistic dialogue, and the intersections and divergences of their careers. It also sheds light on the opportunities and challenges of pursuing a professional artistic career at a time when women’s lives were shaped by societal expectations. The exhibition examines their studies in Finland and abroad, international influences, spirituality, and the economic realities of artistic work. [
Two works from the UPM-Kymmene Cultural Foundation’s collection have been lent to the exhibition:
- Venny Soldan-Brofeldt, At the Piano (Sally Piispanen-Basilier), 1889
- Helene Schjerfbeck, Figure Study, 1884
The exhibition brings together works from museum and private collections and offers a unique opportunity to explore the artistic paths, friendship, and shared commitment to artistic freedom that connected these two remarkable artists throughout their lives.
More information: https://www.jarvenpaantaidemuseo.fi/en
📸 Images:
Venny Soldan-Brofeldt, At the Piano (Sally Piispanen-Basilier), 1889
Helene Schjerfbeck, Figure Study, 1884