Art: Samuli Laine Explores Care by Breastfeeding Strangers
Translated from Finnish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Artist Samuli Laine's performance piece "Nurture" features him breastfeeding adult participants.
- The work explores themes of care and gender through the act of breastfeeding.
- The performance is on view at the Emma Museum in Espoo until Sunday.
Artist Samuli Laine is presenting a provocative performance piece titled "Nurture" (Kannattelu), in which he breastfeeds adult participants. This unconventional work delves into the complex themes of care and gender, using the intimate and often gender-specific act of breastfeeding as its central focus.
The performance challenges traditional perceptions and societal norms surrounding breastfeeding, typically associated with infancy and motherhood. By extending this act to adult individuals, Laine invites viewers and participants to reconsider the broader meanings of nurturing, dependency, and intimacy. The piece aims to spark dialogue about the biological and social constructs of gender roles and the multifaceted nature of caregiving.
"Nurture" is currently being exhibited at the Emma Museum in Espoo, Finland. The artwork's run is nearing its end, with the final viewing scheduled for Sunday. The exhibition offers a unique opportunity for audiences to engage with Laine's exploration of sensitive and thought-provoking themes through a powerful and unconventional artistic medium.
Originally published by Helsingin Sanomat in Finnish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.