Sketch for AAhkA
Outi Pieski has created a monumental Sámi artwork in the new government quarter. The artwork covers an area of 700 m² and is 51 metres high and has been named Aha. The artwork depicts a female figure wearing a traditional horned hat, a hat. In her hand, she holds a walking stick. Aha can have many meanings, depending on where in Sápmi you are. The three big A's in the name symbolise the primeval mother, Water Mother and her three daughters Sáráhkká, Uksáhkká and Juoksahakka.
The work highlights Sámi perspectives in a building where important decisions for Norway are made. It is both about acknowledging indigenous history and looking towards the future, with values such as care for nature, community, and responsibility for all living things. The figure can be interpreted in several ways: AAhkA is a feminine protector, the young warrior fighting for Sámi rights, or a future generation combining traditional knowledge with new technology. Through Aha Does Outi Pieski wish to show that Sámi culture is based on a worldview where humans, nature and all living things are interconnected, and that this knowledge is still important today (Art in Public Spaces - KORO).
Sketch for AAhkA This is an original, hand-drawn sketch by Pieski, which we have been allowed to display here at the Centre for Northern Peoples. You can see this important artwork in our exhibition until 25 November. Thanks to the artist Outi Pieski, KORO with curator Drew Snyder, and Riddu Riđđu for making this possible! The sketch is owned by KORO.
Outi Pieski and Drew Snyder in conversation about AAhkA: Sámi art at the centre of power, Riddu Riđđu 09/06/2026
Outi Pieski with Sketch for AAhkA in our exhibition.
More about Aha:
AahkA – Nature's Guardian – KORO
Work of Art of the Year: https://www.minerva.no/aahka-kunst-i-offentlige-rom-outi-pieski/arets-kunstverk-aahka/491521