Vesa-Pekka Rannikko’s new public sculpture series Kirjoverkkoperhonen (Scarce Fritillary) was unveiled during the summer in Tuusula, Finland. The body of work consists of forty butterfly sculptures, which are placed on trees, lamp posts and other structures along the light traffic route. The sculptures are made of steel and each one is painted individually.
The work is based on the history and natural environment of the Rykmentinpuisto area. In the past, during the area’s garrison’s activities, the terrain conditions favored the living conditions of the scarce fritillary. Lately, the species has no longer been observed. Alongside Rannikko’s sculptures, different flowering plants are planted in the area, hoping to attract butterflies and other pollinators.
Rannikko wants to gently provide the residents of the area with opportunities to look at their surroundings with fresh eyes, and also to remind them of the changes in the natural environment. For him, art is a great tool for experiencing familiar places and routes in a different way.
The work is part of the production of the Rykmentinpuisto art program of Tuusula municipality.
Photo: Courtesy of Vesa-Pekka Rannikko