Kin Museum of Contemporary Art presents first Johan Turi exhibition in a century
In Kiruna, Sweden, the Kin Museum of Contemporary Art is set to host a significant autumn exhibition honoring Johan Turi (1854–1936), the Sámi artist, writer, and philosopher. This event will be the first showcase of Turi's artistic endeavors in nearly a hundred years. Renowned as the first Sámi author for his influential work 'Muitalus sámiid birra' (An Account of the Sámi, 1910), Turi also crafted a captivating visual narrative of daily life in northern Sápmi. His unique drawings and artifacts, which vividly illustrate themes of work, love, and existence in Sápmi, will be displayed alongside additional materials. This exhibition aligns with the Truth Commission for the Sámi People in Sweden's final report submission to the Swedish Ministry of Culture on September 30, 2026, renewing interest in Turi's legacy.
Key facts
- Johan Turi (1854–1936) was a Sámi artist, writer, and philosopher.
- Turi is the first Sámi author, known for his book 'Muitalus sámiid birra' (An Account of the Sámi, 1910).
- The exhibition at Kin Museum of Contemporary Art is the first presentation of Turi's artistic work in almost a century.
- The exhibition is a major fall exhibition at Kin Museum of Contemporary Art.
- Turi's drawings and objects depict everyday life in northern Sápmi.
- The Truth Commission for the Sámi People in Sweden submits its final report to the Swedish Ministry of Culture on September 30, 2026.
- The exhibition is part of renewed attention to Turi's legacy due to the Truth Commission's work.
- Turi's work provides a unique visual record of work, love, and life in Sápmi.
Entities
Artists
- Johan Turi
Institutions
- Kin Museum of Contemporary Art
- Truth Commission for the Sámi People in Sweden
- Swedish Ministry of Culture
Locations
- Kiruna
- Sweden
- Sápmi