Inspired By

Foraging in Finland
by Maija Astikainen

Maija Astikainen is a Helsinki-based photographer working with both commissioned and personal projects. Her personal work deals with the themes of people, nature and urbanism. She is currently finishing her Master’s thesis in photography at Aalto University School of Arts, Design and Architecture.

“Helsinki is surrounded by nature and it's easy to visit big forests and nature reserves. My favourite thing to do in autumn is to go foraging for mushrooms, berries and other edible plants. Looking for funnel chanterelles is a bit like a treasure hunt - first it's impossible to find any, then you find one and suddenly you can see dozens more. Mushrooms are really pretty and to forage in the forest is a visual pleasure. I also like finding interesting flavours. For example, the common polypody roots taste like liquorice and make a great tea with mint leaves.“

Text Maija Astikainen/The Garden Edit
Photography Maija Astikainen