Discussion: The Roles and Meanings of Images in Books

How do images and illustrations shape the reading experience? Where is the line between opening up interpretation and limiting the reader's imagination?

In a panel organized by the Book Arts Committee, graphic designers, illustrators, and photographers discuss how illustration emerges as part of a book's physical form, what freedoms and constraints the work involves, and how digitalization, audiobooks, and social media have changed the significance of images in publishing. The panel also explores the status of illustration in relation to text in children's picture books and other illustrated works.

The panelists are award-winning creators from the 2025 Most Beautiful Books collection: photographer Jussi Hellsten, writer, photographer, and craftsperson Taru Samola, illustrator, comic artist, and author Pinja Meretoja, and illustrator Rakastaja Robert. The discussion is moderated by Päivi Helander, chair of the Book Arts Committee and graphic designer.

The 2025 Most Beautiful Books collection will be on display for browsing at the event from 2 to 4 p.m. The books are exhibited at Oodi until 25 October. The event takes place on Saturday, 26 September, from 2 to 3 p.m. at Saarikoski-matto, 3rd floor. Admission is free.