Tove Jansson Catalogue

Tove Jansson (1914–2001) was courageous in her life and art. She was a curious and unprejudiced seeker who questioned authorities and constantly discovered new modes of expression.

The exhibition expands the focus to include Tove Jansson’s colourful life and professional experience. It presents her many careers as an artist, illustrator, caricaturist, cartoonist and originator of the world-famous Mumin characters. As a visual artist, she was a colourist who admired Matisse and a monumental painter who mastered large surfaces. She was among the most brilliant of her time in drawing, thanks to her precise and forceful lines.

Tove Jansson’s art and stories are more relevant than ever because of the current situation in Europe and the world. Acceptance of diversity and tolerance are recurring themes throughout her production. Even if the family is always at the core – the artist’s family and the fictive Mumin clan – the door is always open to those seeking protection or direction. Tove Jansson’s art reflects humanity’s diversity and her deep understanding of it.

The exhibition is produced by the Atheneum Art Museum and the Finnish National Gallery, with exhibition design and a comprehensive program of educational activities created by the Gothenburg Museum of Art.

Tove Jansson Lusten att skapa och leva exhibition catalogue for a touring exhibition about the work of artist and writer Tove Jansson. The exhibition tour included the Stockholm, Gothenburg, Copenhagen, and London museums.