Anne Koskinen’s Lotta Svärd Memorial Läpi harmaan kiven
A new commissioned public sculpture by Anne Koskinen has been unveiled in Tampere. The piece, titled Läpi harmaan kiven, was created as a tribute to the work and legacy of the Lotta Svärd organisation, a women’s voluntary auxiliary paramilitary organisation that operated between 1921 and 1944.
The Finnish phrase Läpi harmaan kiven translates as through the grey stone and describes the act of overcoming extreme obstacles and achieving a goal despite overwhelming odds. The phrase conveys a sense of determination and perseverance, akin to the English expression where there’s a will, there’s a way.
The monument comprises two natural stone boulders. The larger of these bears an illustration of the lotta and pikkulotta uniforms in their natural size, the years 1921–1944, and the Finnish national flower, the lily-of-the-valley. The smaller boulder bears the image of a child figure, with a space designated for the placement of either a candle or a white rose.
The monument is located in the northern part of Tampere’s Cathedral Park, which will henceforth be designated Lotta Svärd Memorial Park. The work is included in the public art collection of the city of Tampere, the management of which is the responsibility of the Tampere Art Museum.
Anne Koskinen, Lotta Svärd Memorial Läpi harmaan kiven, two part sculpture installation, natural stone boulders, stainless steel, candle/white rose, 2025.
Image: Hanna Huitu/Galerie Anhava
Discover more from Anne Koskinen
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.