Where words end, music begins. Jean Sibelius (1865-1957) is, without doubt, Finland’s most celebrated composer. During a time when our little Nordic country was gripped with an identity crisis, he helped us find our voice. This collection is our hymn to him and his life’s work.
But what’s with all the nature stuff? For Jean, the Finnish nature was an endless source of inspiration. When looking for inspiration, the composer often took to the woods. No wonder, when you think of it: after all, the woods are filled with composers perched on every tree and branch. In a famous quote, Jean tells how he imagined the crows as oboes, and the magpies as bassoons.
In the collection’s prints, we wanted to highlight the special relationship Jean had with nature. The prints allude to the landscapes the composer roamed while seeking inspiration – and to some of the darker themes that influenced his work. For instance, some of Jean’s most acclaimed works, like Valse Triste and The Swan of Tuonela, deal with death. Hence the foreboding skulls and all.
Of course, there’s more. But what’s the point in spoiling the fun of exploration?
Take a look for yourself here.
