“(METU) has given me the tools and bravery to step outside of my comfort zone and help me grow professionally.”
Henni Janine Mikkonen studied Visual Representation at METU, where she became a part of an international community of creative people. With the help of METU’s unique myBrand training method, she was able to lay the foundations for her future career.
Why did you choose this field, this major and what inspires you?
I have enjoyed creative activities ever since my childhood and after trying a different career path, I wanted to start to pursue my passion.
What were your favourite projects at METU and why?
I enjoyed any project that let me work with my hands and paint. I also enjoyed all of the printmaking projects, because printmaking is a method I wanted to learn more about and still want to work with in the future.
What was your diploma work and why did you choose this topic?
For my diploma project I made a series of paintings about the bird-related beliefs and myths of Baltic Finnic people. I've always found history and different mythologies and folklore around the world fascinating. And since I am Finnish, I wanted to show my culture with my diploma work. Birds I started drawing/painting when I was in a situation in my life where I felt stuck. Drawing something that was “free to go wherever it wanted” gave some sort of relief to me. Ever since that birds have been an important part of my work. I knew I wanted to involve them in my diploma work and since they also play a large part in Finnish folklore and culture it was a perfect fit for me.
What did METU contribute to your professional development?
For me the exploration of different mediums and methods of art-making have given me the tools and bravery to step outside of my comfort zone and help me grow professionally.
What does METU’s credo “Inspired by Creativity” mean to you?
You get to meet many creative people from all around the world and be a part of a group that keeps inspiring each other with their creativity.
What would you say to those, who want to apply to a university, why choose METU?
If you are interested in an international community of creative people, this is the place for you.
What are your plans for the future?
I hope to start exhibiting my work and keep on trying different things. Anyone interested in my art can follow me on Instagram at hennijan!
Take your next step at METU’s bachelors' program – get to know our Visual Representation BA program!