REVONTULET, 2020

temporary outdoor pavilion / American Swedish Institute / Extraordinary Holiday - Nordic Story Trail

stock lumber, paint, fabric, rope, shimmer curtains

One of Finland’s most iconic stories is that of the Fox Fires, Revontulet, otherwise known as the Northern Lights. It is said that the auroras were created by arctic foxes running over the frozen tundra creating sparks that light fires in the sky.

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, 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. Such stories and myths connect to ancestors and the wisdom of the earth.

This Finnish story has been translated into a sculptural pavilion that emulates the spirit of the Revontulet. In person, visitors can stand or sit beneath the structure to reflect on the wonder of being in the moment and imagining the Northern Lights.

The installation was designed by local Finnish artist and designer Tia Keo. Watch the story of Revontulet from Visit Finland here.