Artist Jonna Kina’s exhibition SOMNIVM is now open at Beaconsfield Gallery in London. In her work Kina reflects the conflicting relationship of nature and culture by exploring and using Italian Carrara marble.  She answered some questions about her work after the opening:

How did you get the idea for SOMNIVM?

“In 2016 I applied to Väinö Tanner’s atelier in Mazzano Romano. I had already decided to work with marble. In 2017 I was chosen to be a finalist in the Below Zero competition, which meant I got the chance to develop my idea further. I went to Carrara, because one of the oldest and most famous marble mines is located there. Then the process started to build up.”

What is your typical day like?

“During my typical day, I edit the film material. The post-production in this project took a long time. For example, I deleted all the mining machines from the video material. This is a normal part of the process, but my residence time in London has been limited, so I had to work long hours.”

How is SOMNIVM different to your previous projects?

“This is a part of a prize, so certain kind of pressure is involved. I usually work in a studio, and when the piece is ready I’ll bring the piece out for people to enjoy. This time, the studio has been open for public twice a week, and I had to attend different meetings. I had to keep track with the budget and time. My working methods, such as analogical filming, are slow, which has brought certain difficulties to the project. Luckily, I got also help with my post-production process.”

What is the most common misconception that people have about your work?

“I don’t know what is the most common misconception about my work, but I’m perfectly fine with the fact that people will interpret my work in multiple ways. Misconceptions are sometimes essential, as they produce new kind of interpretations.  There’s no need to know anything about my work before seeing it. The text accompanying my artwork can offer one point of view and possibly change the way one perceives the piece. In the best case, the piece can change prejudices and impressions.”

What has been the best part of the project?

“Below Zero art prize has offered me a chance to create a whole new artwork. I have gotten support, and recognition, and it means a lot.”

SOMNIVM exhibition in London until 22.4. From Wednesday until Sunday 11–17 pm, Beaconsfield Gallery Vauxhall, 22 Newport Street, London SE11 6AY.

See the video below of the exhibition opening at Beaconsfield Gallery on Wednesday 7th of March. 

Interview by Veera Heinonen