State of Ölövi

A Celebration of Open-Hearted Welcoming

State of Ölövi is a painting reminiscent of my time spent in Cork, Ireland, during the late 90s. It reflects on a red t-shirt gifted by friends, adorned with a white star and the text "Peoples of the Republic of Cork." This translated into a welcoming embrace, signifying the warm reception I experienced there.

This artwork is an embodiment of those cherished memories, transformed into a testament of my immense pride in the Oulu area, our dialect, and a desire to extend a warm welcome to others. It encapsulates the spirit of celebration, inviting everyone with pride and an open heart filled with joy to revel together.

"Ölövi" holds a significant place in Oulu's dialect, signifying various emotions depending on the context—a sense of ease, pride, self-assurance, or even a touch of merriment. It encapsulates the essence of a welcoming and celebratory atmosphere, inviting others to join in the joyful festivities embraced by the open-hearted spirit of Oulu.