TIA KEOBOUNPHENG: REMNANTS OF DAILY PRACTICE since 2017
REVONTULET, 2020
Fox Fires / Northern Lights - for American Swedish Institute
REVONTULET
The story of Finland is that of the Fox Fires, the Revontulet, otherwise known as the Northern Lights. It is said that the auroras are created by arctic foxes running over the frozen tundra creating sparks that light fires in the sky. Ancient Finns were also known to call their magic spells revontulet which suggests the magical and mystical interpretations of the Northern Lights of ancestors. In the middle of winter, when the sun barely breaks the surface, light is one of the most revered aspects of the holidays. Tree lights and candles and gathering around fires are echoes of the larger, magnificent lights that dance above, cutting through the darkness, connecting us to something bigger and more expansive than ourselves. This Finnish story will translate to a sculptural pavilion that emulates the spirit of the Revontulet. Sit in the chair, stand underneath (or lay on the snow-covered ground) below the structure to momentarily reflect on the wonder of being in the moment and imagining the Northern Lights.
As a Finnish-American, I was asked to create a visual display that tells the Finnish story for 2020 Holiday display. Adapting to Covid19, the main display moved from a decorated room in the mansion to the outdoor courtyard with an echo in the windows along the main hallway.
