Helsinki Biennial slated for 12 Jun-26 Sep

The inaugural Helsinki Biennial will be held this summer from 12 June to 26 September 2021 on the Vallisaari Island and in mainland Helsinki, said the City of Helsinki in a press release on Wednesday.

It will be available to audiences as allowed by the COVID-19 restrictions. All announced artists and artist groups, as well as one new art collective will take part in the biennial.

“Implementing an international biennial with considerable special arrangements during a time like this takes a great effort from Helsinki. The commitment, given before the COVID-19 crisis, to make Helsinki a maritime centre of international art, major events, and unforgettable experiences has not diminished. On the contrary, we believe that the biennial will promote the renewal of Helsinki’s attraction and vitality and indicate that Helsinki is a city you can trust and a city worth investing in,” said Helsinki Mayor Jan Vapaavuori.

Director of the biennial and the Helsinki Art Museum (HAM) Maija Tanninen-Mattila said they are ready to provide the visitors with a safe and inspiring exhibition experience.

“I believe that in these challenging times, people long for art and cultural experiences even more than before. I hope that the biennial will bring hope, light, and joy to city residents and all visitors,” said Mattila.

Helsinki Biennial will be constructed and the artworks installed as planned during the spring, in accordance with the current COVID-19 restrictions.

About one-third of the workS to be placed on THE Vallisaari will be located outdoors along the trails, and the rest will be indoors in gunpowder cellars and old residential buildings. Some of the biennial’s works will be placed on the mainland in HAM and in different parts of Helsinki.

“The possibility of opening gradually is considered in the planning of the biennial,” said Head of Helsinki Biennial Jonna Hurskainen.

All 40 previously announced artists and artist groups from Finland and across the world will take part in Helsinki Biennial.

“We want to thank the artists, curator team, and all people who have participated in the biennial’s implementation and construction for their dedication and flexibility amidst changes,” said Pirkko Siitari and Taru Tappola, the head curators of the inaugural Helsinki Biennial.

Helsinki Biennial is an international contemporary art event organised every other year.