FAVM is pleased to present the thought provoking artwork of Seppo Leinonen (b. 1957 – Kajaani) for comparison with sentiments expressed in earlier nineteenth century Finnish romantic landscape art. What happened over the past 160 years to prompt artists like Leinonen to speak out? Finland’s population, in fact the world’s population, was much fewer in number back then, than it is now. Finns love the out-of-doors; they love nature. Leinonen takes pleasure in walking or skiing in the woods, paddling or rowing along waterways, camping with his family, fishing and bird watching. He likes to observe small and large creatures and phenomena in both nature and politics. Finland was known for its pristine lakes, clean air and beautiful forests. Other countries were also blessed with idyllic environments. Yet, expanding global populations, influential international business demands and frequent political changes are rapidly threatening to destroy forever what was once assumed to be a wonderful lasting gift.

Seppo Leinonen is a contemporary Finnish cartoonist and illustrator with a social conscience. He and his peers utilize their artistic talents to openly question policies and trends in order to encourage individuals to carefully consider the long-term consequences of decisions made by elected officials. They ask you to think and question. For example, look at the juxtaposition in Crane vs. Crane.

It is interesting to observe how people from various countries view global events and attitudes with differing perspectives. Politically and environmentally sensitive cartoonists, such as Leinonen, utilize humor and biting satire to deliver powerful messages and raise awareness. There is a basic scientific axiom: For every action there is an equal and opposite reaction. The loss of purity, the destruction of natural habitats and the consistent lowering of acceptable standards will ultimately and negatively alter life, as we know it. It is happening now. To learn more about Seppo Leinonen and his serious cartoons go to: http://www.seppo.net/ Finnish or
http://www.seppo.net/e/ English.