Underground Forest

An AI visualisation created by Polina Choni (not representing the final texture).

Original title: Underground Forest
Title in Finnish: Maanalainen metsä
Genre: 3D animation
Duration: 10 min
Artist, director: Polina Choni
Phase: In development
Supported by:
AVEK Mediarata
Finnish Cultural Foundation / Pirkanmaa Regional Foundation
Oulu 2026 European Capital of Culture
Sakari Alhopuro Foundation
Producers:
Jaana Denisova,
Tuuli Penttinen-Lampisuo

The Underground Forest grows from the Ukrainian steppe. The project rethinks the role of nature in the modern world and reflects on the historical influence of imperial structures on natural resources, ecosystems, and our knowledge about them.

The Underground Forest consists of a 3D animation film and an art installation created by artist Polina Choni, as well as an impact programme coordinated by producer Jaana Denisova.

Polina Choni is a visual artist exploring themes of ecology, sustainability, and the environmental impact of war. Working with natural materials such as plant-based dyes, bioplastics made from starch and flowers, and organic fibers, she creates installations, textiles, and sensory-based works that address the destruction of ecosystemsand cultural memory.

Jaana Denisova is a culture producer and coordinator. Her experience spans a diverse range of projects including exhibitions, artist talks, workshops, and participatory events. She is co-founder of Tampere-based Culture Cooperative TIcAS and the first producer selected for the Poike Productio’s Producer Incubator Programme edition 2025.