Italian artist Fabio Petani was chosen among 479 applicants in a Europe-wide portfolio application process. The artist, known for his plant-themed artwork, has sought inspiration from local nature.
The series of murals commissioned as a part of the culture program Oulu2026 is continuing this summer in Myllyoja. The mural will be completed during August and is located on the end wall of a six-story building at the address Karvarinaukio 12.
Fabio Petani “Methylacetophenone & Crocosmia aurea” (2022), Pescara, Italia. Kuva: Fabio Petani
The artist was chosen via a portfolio application, among 479 applications from 39 European countries. A board of professionals chose the Italian artist Fabio Petani to execute the piece. One of the selection criteria was a different approach from the previous two years. Petani, who works with botanical and nature themes, impressed the board with his recognizable and original style.
Fabio Petani arrived in Oulu at the beginning of August, whereupon he started his process in Myllyoja by getting to know the area and its wildlife. Petani got to know the locals as well, by participating in a day trip to Hailuoto, arranged by the residents’ association of Myllyoja.
Petani’s goal is to create a piece of art that reflects the spirit of Oulu.
“I have familiarized myself with the history and culture of Oulu, focusing especially on the local spectrum of nature, which is the basis of my artistic work. In the mural I will be combining plant elements with cultural symbolism,” Petani explains the starting point for his artwork.
Petani’s aim is to make art accessible to everyone, while also changing everyday environments into unique visual experiences.
“I want to paint a mural that the residents of the area can be proud of, and one that creates a sense of community. At the same time I wish for the piece to be a celebration of the cohabitation of humans and nature.”
Fabio Petani (b. 1987) works mostly with nature-related themes. His expression is characterized by the combination of harmony and disruption. Petani has created numerous public pieces in his native Italy, as well as other countries around Europe. His art can be found both in galleries and in public spaces. Petani’s site-specific art is born from contemplating our relationship with nature.
The artist was chosen by a jury of professionals on public art, which was comprised of visual artist Minna Kangasmaa, curator of Oulu Art Museum Katariina Kemppainen, producer of Oulu Culture Association Inka Hyvönen, and art coordinator of Upeart Yiorgos Slunga.
The locations of the Oulu2026 murals are chosen by citizens of Oulu in a yearly vote. The previous murals are in Rajakylä and Tuira.
The piece called Ovensuussa in Tuira was painted in 2023 by the Canadian artist Ilana Pichon. British artist Eloise Gillow painted Käännekohta in Rajakylä in 2022. When Oulu becomes the European Capital of Culture in 2026, a mural will be painted in the city center. Activities such as art tours and contests will be held around all of the murals. After completion the pieces will become part of the collection of Oulu Art Museum.
Oulu is the European Capital of Culture 2026. Oulu and the whole Northern Finland will be filled with culture, art, and events. Northern Finland will be put on the map like never before, as both Finnish and international culture operators create new visions in cities, in the countryside, and in nature. This is a journey of several years, which will culminate in 2026.
More information:
Upeart, +358 50 468 6521, press(at)upeart.com
