Mikael Kunnari interprets the movement of nature and time as part of the Abstract Sensory Journey at Original Sokos Hotel Arina.
When the people of Oulu were asked what makes them happy, the same themes came up again and again: forest, sea, light, and the changing seasons. Oulu based digital artist Mikael Kunnari, interprets this theme as part of the Abstract Sensory Journey at Original Sokos Hotel Arina.
Kunnari’s works have been exhibited in New York and sold around the world. His art is built on time-lapse photography. Mikael began photographing over 12 years ago while searching for a balance to counter hurry and stress—at first without a camera, simply by being in nature. Soon, the landscapes also began to be captured through the lens. Time-lapse photography forced him to stay still in one place for extended periods of time, and it is precisely in that stillness the core of his art lies.
Kunnari wants to reveal nature in a way the naked eye cannot see: the movement of light, the flow of clouds, the layers of time. At the same time, his works remind us of the importance of pauses and slowing down everyday life. Mikael’s motto—and the name of his digital art collection—is “Just Slow Down.”
Rich nature is a luxury
In the Oulu2026 year, attention turns to what Oulu can show Europe. One answer is simple yet meaningful: pure nature that is genuinely part of everyday life. Oulu is a city where forests, seasonal change, silence, and maritime surroundings are not rare escapes but daily possibilities. Through Mikael Kunnari’s works, this closeness to nature is made visible to an international audience as well, reminding us that well-being can be built on accessible nature and the ability to slow down in its presence.
Around the world, nature is not equally accessible everywhere. In many major cities, safe access to nature, clear skies, clean air, and a quiet forest are luxuries. In Oulu, the forest often begins right at the doorstep, and the sea opens up in the middle of the city. What is close here is rare for many.
🔗 More information about the artist: https://medium.com/@popsto/my-story-7e2f950763f9
🔗 Purchase available works here: https://foundation.app/collection/just-slow-down
🔗 Please contact the artist if you are interested in unpublished works or have any questions: @mikaelkunnari
How to experience the Abstract Sensory Journey
Welcome to the Abstract Sensory Journey at Original Sokos Hotel Arina, located in the heart of Oulu! The art experience consists of seven different sensory points, elegantly placed throughout various areas of the hotel. At each point, you can immerse yourself in the atmosphere and experience art through different senses. The Abstract Sensory Journey can be experienced independently between 11:00 and 20:00.
You can collect the Abstract Sensory Journey materials from our reception and set off on a self-guided journey that leads you through seven sensory points into the heart of Oulu’s happiness.
Note: One of the sensory points is the “Ode to Maritime Oulu” art hotel room. It is included in the Sensory Journey in 2026 during open-door hours on Sundays of even-numbered weeks from 16:00 to 18:00.
