John SavioHásttuheaddjin Voice of Resistance
John Savio (1902–38) was a groundbreaking Sámi artist who was active in the 1920s and 30s. He is especially known for his expressive woodcuts and paintings, which depicted Sámi culture and everyday life as he knew it.
Through his art, Savio challenged stereotypical and racist images of Sámi culture, and called for resistance against the discrimination and state-imposed ‘Norwegianisation’ policies of his age. This made him an important voice in the wider political movement for Sámi self-determination.
Despite his short lifespan, Savio managed to make a significant mark. He combined depictions of traditional Sámi culture with modern techniques, and developed a visual language which paved the way for Sámi ‘dáidda’, or Sámi contemporary art. Today he is considered a unique voice in Nordic modernism, and a continuing source of inspiration for Sámi contemporary artists.
This exhibition is a collaboration with the Savio Museum in Kirkenes and marks the first major exhibition of Savio’s work viewed from a Sámi perspective, bringing together nearly 100 pieces. It presents groundbreaking research and new perspectives on this under-recognised artist, contributing to a deeper understanding of both Sámi and Circumpolar Indigenous art.After its presentation at MUNCH, the exhibition will travel to Nordnorsk Kunstmuseum in Bodø and Trondheim Kunstmuseum in 2027.
The exhibition brings together artistic contributions by Eveliina Sarapää in the form of exhibition architecture, Elle Márjá Eira through a sound work, and Katarina Spik Skum with a duodji installation.
The exhibition is curated by Liisa-Rávná Finbog (Rámavuol Liisa-Rávdná).
The exhibition is supported by:
