Maija Tammi’s The Problem of the Hydra (2020) won the international short film competition of the 57th International Festival of Science Documentary Films, Olomouc, held from April 26 to May 1 2022 in Academia Film Olomouc, Czech Republic. The jury states that this intensive experimental short film takes the audience away from their comfort zone by asking existential questions that keep the viewer awake.

Maija Tammi’s The Problem of the Hydra is an experimental documentary film about the practical and metaphysical problems a small fresh-water polyp, known as Hydra, has caused since the 1700s to the present day. Contrary to most animals, Hydra vulgaris does not age – at all. The film was awarded with the audience award in the NEW POINT OF VIEW competition of THIS IS SHORT online short film festival in 2021.

Maija Tammi (b. 1985) is a Finnish artist and Doctor of Arts, whose photographs, videos, and installations examine the borders of disgust and fascination, science and art. Tammi’s work has been exhibited in Paris, Berlin, Rome, London, New York and Tokyo, and she has four published books. Tammi currently holds the honorary title Artist Professor and a grant for 2020–2024.

57th International Festival of Science Documentary Films, April 26 – May 1 2022, Olomouc, Czech Republic

More information: AFO

AV-arkki has promoted and distributed Finnish media art since 1989. AV-arkki’s promotional efforts have made the artists’ participation in this event possible.