Finland, 1974
Henri Malmi (b. 1974) is a Finnish visual artist whose practice merges curiosity with
intuitive expression. His work explores the subconscious, hidden structures, societal
phenomena, and the complexities of the human mind.
Malmi has studied at the Southwest Finland School of Crafts and Design. His artistic
practice is inseparable from his way of life — a continuous pursuit of seeing beyond the
visible through curiosity.
Artist statement
I am inspired by color, tactile making, nature, and diverse cultures. I am equally drawn
to how different phenomena have evolved over time, and how I envision them unfolding
in the future. Through my work, I seek to make these experiences visible and tangible
for others.
My thinking often returns to the traditional artistic expressions of different cultures. I
am particularly inspired by Indigenous art, which reflects a deep respect for nature and
its responsible use. As in food, minimizing waste is essential in my artistic process.
My paintings are created using unconventional tools such as naturally shed bird
feathers, torn sponges, spatulas, brushes, and rollers. I prepare my own egg tempera
from pigments combined with linseed oil, and work on linen canvases that I stretch,
treat, and prime myself using traditional methods with bone glue.
In my process, the image emerges over time through the interplay of color, movement,
and duration. At times, rehearsed gestures and dry runs introduce elements of chance,
allowing the work to evolve organically.
