Vapaa ’26 Graduation Exhibition
What has life been like after graduation?
Tuomas:
The time after graduation has been exciting, daunting, and rewarding. I have continued working in a shared studio at Kaapelitehdas with my classmate Katinka van der Jagt, supported by a grant from the Finnish Art Society, and have participated in several group exhibitions. I have also taken part in events such as Konstrundan and held a solo exhibition. At the moment, I am involved in the Finnish Painters’ Union’s art sales event and applying for upcoming exhibitions.
In my recent work, I have expanded beyond earlier themes to explore societal phenomena, such as consumption and the impact of the post-digital era on visual culture. While my thematic scope has broadened, I continue to work through a symbolic mode of expression developed earlier. It has been engaging to extend what I have learned in relation to new discoveries. My practice has also expanded beyond oil painting into mixed media, as well as photography. It still feels that there is much to discover within painting and visual art.
Eino:
I am doing well. After graduating, I deliberately took some distance from painting in order to reflect on my work from a new perspective. I have also spent time travelling, which has brought new experiences and ideas for future work.
How would you describe your brother’s artistic approach, and how does it differ from your own?
Tuomas:
Although our starting points and education are similar, I would describe Eino’s approach as very different from my own. I admire many aspects of his work, including his distinctive use of colour, his visual language, and his command of diverse materials and techniques. His ability to organise these elements into compelling compositions is something I can learn from.
A central aspect of his artistic expression is his unique relationship between abstraction and figuration. In his work, this is combined with experimentation and references to both history and art history.
While our painterly expression differs, we share underlying interests, such as references to history and memory, and certain compositional gestures. We often use similar techniques, even if the outcomes diverge. We frequently discuss art together, and I often ask for his thoughts on my works in progress.
Eino:
I would describe Tuomas’s approach as precise and considered. His paintings are carefully developed, from subject matter to technique, and incorporate references to both art history and philosophy. Through symbolism, layers of meaning emerge that resonate with the viewer’s own experiences and memories.
What message or advice would you like to give current art students?
Tuomas:
I would like to extend my warm greetings and congratulations to art students on having such an excellent place of study. The Free Art School holds a unique position within Finnish art education. It offers high-quality and diverse teaching that supports many different approaches and relationships to painting.
The study years are an especially fertile time for discovery and experimentation. I sincerely wish every student strength and perseverance along this shared path. Take care of yourselves and one another, and be courageous in the face of future challenges.
Eino:
I encourage everyone to be like a sponge and absorb all the knowledge the courses have to offer. At the same time, it is important to preserve your own sensitivity and personal relationship to painting. Learn to enjoy the process — even when it feels challenging.
Tuomas Aitamurto
Born: 1999, Helsinki
Graduated: 2024
Exhibitions after graduation:
Galleria Toinen silmä, Vapaus, group exhibition (2024);
Helsinki Artists’ Association group exhibition, Valo (2025);
Finnish Painters’ Union Art Sale (2025);
Konstrundan, Kaapelitehdas (2025);
Bar Cafe 9, Mikä kerran oli, solo exhibition (2025);
Aalto University, Arkiunet, group exhibition (2025)
Currently inspired by:
Combinations of figurative and representational art. Transitional spaces and interconnected worlds within series of works.
Eino Aitamurto
Born: 2002, Helsinki
Graduated: 2025
Currently inspired by:
Different materials and their combinations. Installation art and sculpture alongside painting.
