Reidar’s Paradise

A museum about the life of the artist professor Reidar Särestöniemi (1925–1981) opened in 1985.

What do you see when you arrive at the museum?

Old Särestö built 1873, restored 2004–06.
The childhood home of the artist gives visitors a glimpse of the culture of Särestö from the early 20th century.

Honkapirtti atelier 1965–1977; foundations 1977–
Reidar Särestöniemi’s first residential atelier building.

Gallery 1972– A distinctive gallery designed by architect Reima Pietilä
Main exhibitions at the museum change annually.

Atelier – Valkeanmeri building 1978–
Reidar’s residential building and studio in which he worked during the last 2.5 years of his life.
In the painting hall, you get an idea of how the large paintings were created.

The hall hosts exchange exhibitions with different museums every year as well as other events, such as theatre performances, concerts and painting workshops.

The Café
A museum office building designed by the architect company Reima and Raili Pietilä. Museum café where you can enjoy a delicious salmon soup or "poronkäristys" (thin slices of sautéed reindeer, served with mashed potatoes). Please order in advance.
Museum Shop – a concept as such – you can also find in Särestö.

At the museum you can forget the busy, tough world. You are more than welcome to come to admire the paintings and architecture or just to relax and enjoy a break from the hustle and bustle.

Events at the museum:
Water colour day at the museum – Why not paint your own aquarelle?
Relaxing meeting at the museum – The atelier building is an ideal venue for conferences and seminars set amidst timeless tranquility. Leave the technology at home. Enjoy the nostalgic sound of pen and paper in an elegant environment, in the hall of the

Valkeanmeri building
Private gatherings in Reidar's cottage kitchen – Have lunch (10 am – 6 pm) or dinner (6 pm – 8 pm) with a small intimate group in the artist’s cottage kitchen.

Reidar’s path – In summer you can see and feel Reidar’s dear paths when walking in the surroundings. Stop at the Välitieva to admire the beauty of the “jänkä” (vast Lappish marsh).

“Jänkä is my favourite motif. Everything happens to me at jänkä. I think jänkä has everything, the entire world, I see jänkä even in my dreams... Jänkä is a mystery to me..." Reidar identified himself with jänkä.

Programme enquiries:
Museum information tel. +358 (0)16 654 480 or
Museum director +358 (0)40 758 2085

Welcome to Reidar’s Paradise, to the exotic Museum of Särestöniemi
Särestöniemi Museum
Särestöntie 880
99110 Kaukonen, Finland
Tel. +358 (0)16 654 480
Open Tuesday - Saturday 12 pm – 6 pm

Entry:
adults 10€, students and senior citizens 7€
groups (min. 10 persons) 8€  
The prices include a guided tour.