Jalmari Ruokokoski (1886-1936)
Finland
1915
Watercolor on paper, in a modern gilt frame, Signed and dated
13 1/2” x 10”
Provenance: Stenmans Konstsalong, Helsinki, Finland

Jalmari Ruokokoski studied at the Central School of Art and Design and the Art Society Drawing School, where he met friend and fellow artist Tyko Sallinen. Sallinen led the November Group, a group of Finnish Expressionist artists founded at the time of Finland’s independence from Russia. The group caused uproar in the Finnish art scene, known for their strong nationalistic views. Ruokokoski participated in numerous exhibitions put on by the group in the early 1900s. He is most known for his portraits, including several self-portraits, but also produced landscapes and still-lifes.

In this watercolor, Adam and Eve seem to have been just expelled from Paradise. There is a melancholy to their postures, but a sense of union as well. The palette of blues and greens gives the painting a dreamy quality, as light transformed in deep forest.

Ruokokoski’s work has been exhibited at HAM, Helsinki Art Museum.