We are happy to introduce Annamaria Palsi-Ikonen, a photographer and visual storyteller residing in Tampere. Annamaria’s work received multiple awards from organizations such as the Federation of European Professional Photographers (FEP) and the Finnish Photo Awards. For example, Annamaria was named to the FEP All-Time Top 25 Gallery, which acknowledges significant contributions to visual art. She represents Team Finland in the WorldPhotographic Cup— an experience that, as she told us, “continues to inspire me as an artist and visual storyteller.”
Her photograph War Madness responds to Susan Sontag’s suggestion that in order for “photographs to accuse, and possibly to alter conduct, they must shock” (Regarding the Pain of Others, p. 81) – a suggestion reflecting important strands in the tradition of European image-making including Jacques Callot’s Les Misères et les Malheurs de la Guerre, Francisco Goya’s Los Desastres de la Guerra and Ernst Friedrich’s Krieg dem Kriege. Photographically, it represents a negative peace photography, i.e., a photography that alludes to peace by showing its absence.
Many thanks to Prince Agyei for introducing us to Annamaria and her work. (FM & RB)
WARNING This blog post contains a rather graphic image that some people might prefer not to see.
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I’m Annamaria Palsi-Ikonen, a visual storyteller and artist drawn to powerful themes that shape how we see the world. My work explores the role of images in challenging societal narratives and encouraging viewers to reflect more deeply on the stories they encounter.
My path into visual storytelling—especially when it comes to humanity—is deeply personal. My grandfather’s experiences during World War II, and the stories he shared about the horrors of that time, sparked my lifelong passion for justice and human rights. His firsthand accounts have stayed with me and continue to fuel my commitment to use art as a way to advocate for peace, empathy, and understanding.
In today’s world, I often feel a deep sense of frustration and urgency. I respond to that through my art—because sometimes, an image can speak louder than a thousand words. One such image is War Madness, a raw and emotionally charged photograph that reflects the devastating consequences of war. I created it to serve as both a warning and a mirror—a way to confront the violence we too often normalize.
I know it’s a harsh image—possibly even too much for some. But that discomfort is intentional. I want people to pause and reflect on the reality it suggests: in war, anyone, even mothers and children can be seen as disposable. That idea is horrifying. It’s completely wrong. No one should ever have to face that kind of madness.
My background in television and film has taught me how powerful visual narratives are in shaping our perceptions. Now, as an artist, I bring that same awareness into my work—especially the importance of perspective. Every image is shaped by someone’s viewpoint, including mine. In today’s media-driven world, recognizing that subjectivity is more important than ever. I encourage viewers to approach images with curiosity and critical thought.
At the heart of my artistic philosophy is a belief in the transformative power of art. I see art as a way to provoke reflection, evoke empathy, and inspire deeper connection with the world around us. My ultimate goal is to contribute to a broader conversation about peace and humanity—and to do what I can, through my imagery, to help move us toward it.