Mikko's Journey - Exhibition Brings Äänekoski's Great Man Close to Viewers

Mikko Niskanen is one of this summer's most talked-about names in the film world, as Niskanen's film Kahdeksan Surmanluotia will be shown in restored form in Sodankylä and Bologna. Mikko Niskanen was a film director, actor and professor from Äänekoski. Niskanen's directorial work has been awarded a total of six Jussi awards. No one else has achieved such a feat.

In Äänekoski town center (Torikatu 4, Äänekoski), the Mikon matkassa exhibition about Mikko Niskanen has opened for the summer. The exhibition was already seen last summer during the Ääniä Festival. Now the exhibition has been updated and it brings Mikko Niskanen back to his hometown. The renewed exhibition was created by Marjo Steffansson and Mikko Niskanen's son, Jorma Niskanen. The exhibition is produced by Kulttuuriyhdistys Ääniä. 

Free admission!

Mikko matkassa -exhibition won't lelinkave anyone cold

The exhibition promises stories, background, objects and snapshots, as well as films about the life and work of Äänekoski's great man. The exhibition truly portrays Mikko Niskanen through images, objects and maps. The space carries a sense of history and respect for Niskanen's work and achievements. When you step into the space on Torikatu, you don't know where to look first. A diverse selection has been assembled, making the exhibition suitable for everyone. Objects, clothes, photos, articles and certificates of honor ensure there is plenty to look at and marvel at. It has been said that Mikko Niskanen was someone who didn't leave anyone cold. And that everyone who dealt with him had some opinion about him. The same applies to the Mikon matkassa exhibition.

From a visitor's perspective

A personal favorite turned out to be the Mikko living room styled in 1960s fashion. In the living room there was a bookcase that you need to examine more closely before it reveals everything to the viewer. The space made into a full living room feels personal and in a certain way private. In addition, there was a stack of old magazines in the living room with articles about Niskanen. The Mikko living room captures the entire exhibition's atmosphere in a special way.

The exhibition also displays artworks made about Niskanen. Paintings, drawings and sculptures reflect to the viewer the respect and popularity the film director received. Works made about Niskanen capture him more than a photograph does. 

The exhibition is open until the end of July. So no worries if your calendar still looks full, there's time. The exhibition is truly worth seeing, so pop in while you're out shopping!