Oskari Kaarne (Samu Oskari Kotilainen, born in 1997) is a Finnish-Karelian multidisciplinary artist specializing in ritualistic art. Actively engaged in various creative endeavours, Kaarne collaborates with diverse ensembles and projects, working as a curator, director, choreographer, dramaturg, performer and lighting/video designer.

Kaarne’s freelance career began during his studies at Oulu University of Applied Sciences, where he pursued a Bachelor in Culture and Arts – specializing in Finnish and Karelian folk dance and art production. He is currently completing Master’s of Art (Theater & Drama) at the Uniarts Helsinki / Theatre Academy, with a specialization in Lighting Design, Ritualistic Theatre, and Choreography.

Deeply rooted in Eastern Finland and the Karelia, Kaarne grew up immersed in indigenous Karelian folklore, music, and dance, shaping the rhythmic and mythological foundation of his artistic vision. Drawing inspiration from his Karelian heritage, Kaarne studies Fennokarelian Wisdom tradition and nature-based healing practices, such as Traditional Sauna Healing.

Through the connection between nature-based healing practises, theatre, performance, installation and light art; he strives to create multisensory environments that guide audiences on ritualistic journeys; surrendering to carefully crafted environments that foster altered states of consciousness and connection to the nature around & within – serving as a form of heritage activism and decolonizing exploration of the western mind – Re:connecting with the local land based traditions.