The world of Moominvalley is being brought to life in a new exhibition, Moomins’ Sea Adventures & Tove and the Sea, at the National Nordic Museum. This immersive exhibition dives into the seafaring stories of Tove Jansson, the beloved Finnish creator of the Moomins, exploring how the sea shaped both her life and her whimsical characters. Visitors can expect original illustrations, rare archival materials, and playful installations that bring Moominvalley’s coastal adventures vividly to life.
From March 28th until September 6th 2026, t the National Nordic Museum, where Viking sagas meet modern design and also known for their spellbinding Candlelight concerts, the exhibition unfolds within a space that perfectly mirrors the blend of history, creativity, and Nordic identity at the heart of the Moomins. Created by Finnish author and artist Tove Jansson, the stories are steeped in the landscapes of the Finnish archipelago, where rugged coastlines, endless horizons, and a deep connection to nature shape both the characters and their adventures.
From original illustrations and early sketches to personal artifacts from Tove Jansson’s life, the exhibition offers a rare glimpse into the creative world behind the Moomins. Immersive displays recreate the atmosphere of Moominvalley’s seaside setting, inviting visitors to step into a world shaped by waves, wind, and quiet island life. At the heart of the exhibition is an interactive island, complete with a lighthouse and rowboats, encouraging visitors to imagine their own adventures and engage with the stories in a playful, hands-on way.
Alongside the whimsical world of Moominvalley, Tove and the Sea offers a more intimate perspective on the artist herself. Through large-scale photographs, reflective texts, and a short documentary filmed by her partner Tuulikki Pietilä, the exhibition traces Jansson’s deep connection to the Finnish archipelago and the life she built by the sea. There’s even a subtle Seattle connection — Pietilä was born in the city before moving to Finland — adding a local thread to this distinctly Nordic story.
Access to Moomins’ Sea Adventures & Tove and the Sea is included with a General Admission ticket to the National Nordic Museum. On Free First Thursdays, Museum admission is free and special exhibition entry is available for $5 at the door.