Alexsis Kivi

Sculptures of Helsinki #15

This week saw Finland celebrate Finnish literature and the birth of national writer Alexsis Kivi on 10th October, flags were flown on every street.

Kivi was born in 1934 and became a writer when he moved to Helsinki for university, his most notable work was Seven Brothers. Even though Kivi saw success he died at the age of 38 in poverty and with a drinking problem.

His statue is the center piece at the Railway Square in Helsinki, he sits in front of the National Theater in a contemplative pose. The statue was unveiled on Kivi’s birthday in 1939.

You can find almost 500 outdoor sculptures, pieces of environmental art and historical monuments in Helsinki and they are accessible to everyone. See more and search through the database at HAMhelsinki.fi.