Kari Cavén - 7 High Serves and a Wide

Kari Cavén (b. 1954 Helsinki) started as a painter but, inspired by the Italian Arte Povera in the 1990s, began making art from recycled materials. He finds materials for his work in skips, old cowsheds – almost anywhere. “Every nook and corner must be searched. You never know what you might find.”

The artist’s studio in Helsinki is full of objects. A work often develops from an insight and a strong sense of form – sometimes from pure coincidence, a playful mood, or quiet humour. In materials that have already been used at least once, the artist associates autobiographical or human elements. The titles of his works often feature witty wordplay.

Art created from discarded materials and found objects puts the viewer in a good mood. Recognizing the original use of the materials adds an extra layer of pleasure to the viewing experience, while at the same time connecting the works to everyday life.