The great epic poem of Northern Europe, born deep in the heart of ancient Karelian forests
Sharing its title with the poetic name for Finland - 'the land of heroes' - Kalevala is the soaring epic poem of the Finnish people. Born of an ancient tradition of folklore and song, Kalevala is a work rich in magic, cosmic mystery and myth, presenting a story of a people through the ages, from the dawn of creation. Sung by rural Finns since prehistoric times, and formally compiled by Elias Lönnrot in the nineteenth century, it is a landmark of Finnish culture and it played a vital role in galvanizing Finland's national identity in the decades leading up to independence. And yet its tales of tragedy and triumph, adventure and ambition, hope, lust, death and birth, reach far beyond the region's borders, searching the heart of human existence.
Ana Jarén, born in Seville in 1985, began her career in the fashion communication field in Madrid, where she is currently based. Being surrounded by designers, stylists, and magazines ignited her creative side and she began work as an illustrator.
In her work, Ana seeks the beauty of life, people, and daily scenes, always with a sharp eye for small details. She centers the world of feelings and emotions in her work, drawing people in evocative contexts to trigger memories in the viewer.
Ana works by hand, combining techniques such as markers, pencils, and acrylics, and she enjoys all of them as much as she did as a child.
Her illustrations have appeared in international publications, including Vogue, The Washington Post, Allure, and GlamourSpain. She has also illustrated books such as Jane, Almudena, Escritoras, Girls Who Green the World, and many more.
Alongside her editorial work, Ana has collaborated with numerous brands, including Bombay Sapphire, Lululemon, Just Eat, Meliá, and FNAC, as well as with institutions including the city councils of Madrid, Paris, and Seville.
