Minute Lifetime

His works are in fact the result of a performance in often extreme circumstances. Severe cold, sharp rocks, rough trees or soft mosses, they all torment or cherish the vulnerable body. That’s how he looks for who or what is his opponent. It makes a strong demand on his stamina to endure and understand the rough nature with both body and mind.

Gullichsen’s works tend towards the well-known interpretations of nature from Romanticism, such as that of Casper David Friedrich (‘Der Wanderer über dem Nebelmeer’, 1818). It also refers to Greek mythology, such as his ‘Icarus’ in a white landscape. But you will also recognize the physical feats of strength comparable to Bas Jan Ader (1942-1975) and challenging the elements. Gullichsen’s photography testifies to an existential longing for security. The images have an intimate, poetic quality and will remain in your memory for a long time.

Svante Gullichsen lives and works in Helsinki. Works are in, among others, the Finnish State Art Collection and several private collections.

(F&M, 2023)