VAPPU ROSSI (b. 1976) is a visual and media artist in Helsinki. Her works are often based on drawing, although she uses a wide variety of techniques and has created paintings, animations, light boxes and graphic prints. Her works feature applied and experimental drawing as well as classical drawing, and she enjoys collaborating with scholars and artists from different fields.
Known for her skilful drawings, Rossi is interested in the spatial and inter-art applications of drawing as well as the integration of the latest technical innovations with traditional freehand drawing. Site-specific works, such as murals and wall drawings, are an important part of her repertoire. She has carried out both public and private commissions.
Rossi’s primary subject is the human form. Her large-scale facial and motion studies are constructed of massed lines, the wandering stylus weaving patterns that give shape to the figures.
Rossi is an experienced and sought-after teacher, who has led art classes over two decades at institutions including Kunsthalle Helsinki, Ateneum Art Museum, the Academy of Fine Arts in Helsinki, the Kiasma Museum of Modern Art and the Helsinki Art Museum (HAM). She has honed the methods of teaching observational drawing and developed a teaching method for drawing motion, suitable for beginners and professionals alike. Her teaching philosophy at the University of Helsinki is characterised by the aim of describing the opportunities afforded by various drawing techniques and work methods, and engaging in multiprofessional cooperation. Rossi has a Master of Fine Arts degree from the Academy of Fine Arts in Helsinki and a Bachelor of Arts (Art and Design) degree from the University of Art and Design in Helsinki.