“Death is given to all” is an expression that describes how the end of life is something that concerns everyone. Death, along with its associated experiences and customs, also resonates with contemporary artists. In February 2026, an exhibition will open at the former Harju Morgue, where twenty-three Forum Box artists and the Piirakkakerho group will present their works. The Latin title of the exhibition, Statutum est hominibus mori, means: it is decreed for humans to die.
The exhibition’s name can be seen above the entrance to the morgue. The works on display explore the theme of liminal space in diverse ways. The concept of liminal space also reflects the building itself, which after its original use served as a youth center until 2019. After that, Harju remained empty for years until its current revival.
Harju is seeking a new purpose, and the Statutum est hominibus mori exhibition tells the story of its rebirth. The selected works are chosen in dialogue with the space, respecting its refined architecture. The selection also reflects the diversity of expression among Forum Box artists. The exhibition includes paintings, sculptures, installations, videos, and performances.
The exhibition is curated by a team of Forum Box members: Riikka Anttonen, Anna Hyrkkänen, Eeva Peura, and Juha-Heikki Tihinen. The curators provided the following list of words as inspiration for the artists: body, death, escort, care, rituals, birth, resurrection, near-death experiences, community, farewell, waiting, preservation, liminal… liminal space! These associations highlight the exhibition’s diversity and how contemporary artists draw inspiration from life’s greatest questions. Visitors are invited to experience the rebirth of Harju through the lens of Forum Box!
Exhibiting artists: Sampo Apajalahti, Petteri Cederberg, Petri Eskelinen, Kaisaleena Halinen, Taru Happonen, Mika Hytti, Kaisu Koivisto, Thomas Nyqvist, Milla-Kariina Oja, Pilvi Ojala, Vesa-Pekka Rannikko, Satu Rautiainen, Simo Ripatti, Hermanni Saarinen, Seppo Salminen, Antti Tanttu, Kain Tapper, Nora Tapper, Paula Tella, Piirakkakerho, Pauliina Turakka Purhonen, Kristiina Uusitalo, Maija Vainonen, Magdalena Åberg.
PhD Juha-Heikki Tihinen
Exhibition is open 7.–28.2.2026 Tue—Sun 12—5 pm. Address of the location is Aleksis Kiven katu 3.