Taiteen talo in Turku
- The Taiteen talo arts centre was opened in Turku in spring 2022 as a home for art and culture – for artists, local residents, and tourists alike.
- Taiteen talo is located in Rettig's old tobacco factory in the middle of Turku's Old Town, at Nunnankatu 4. Activities are spread out
- over the six floors of the former tobacco factory, and its courtyard buildings.
- A wide array of creative professionals, including visual and performing artists, work on the premises, and the house presents all kinds of exhibitions, performances, events, and workshops.
- The limited company Turun Taiteen talo Oy promotes and supports cultural activities in the city of Turku, with a mission to advance the professional possibilities and livelihood of art and culture makers, and is behind the development and organisation of the Taiteen talo concept.
Pensikkala has extensive experience in the administration and production of cultural institutions of various sizes. In Turku, he has previously worked e.g. as a producer at the TEHDAS Teatteri independent theatre, and as administrative manager and production manager at the Turku City Theatre.
Pensikkala gained broad interdisciplinary experience in the cultural field during his years as production coordinator of the Turku European Capital of Culture initiative between 2008 and 2012. His appointment as CEO follows his position as Head of Production at the Finnish National Opera and Ballet. He will take up his new post on 15 September 2022.
Pensikkala is looking forward to his new job with great enthusiasm.
“Taiteen talo represents everything I want to work towards; collaboration through different art forms as well as the opportunity to create something new and long-lasting through culture. The great location in the heart of the Old Town of Turku, this encounter of artists and
commercial operators, and the very essence of the Taiteen talo project, all inspire and encourage visions of an open, surprising, multi-voiced, and diverse community. It sends an invitation to locals and visitors alike,” says Jere Pensikkala.
According to Pensikkala, Taiteen talo is a natural continuation of the arduous work that has already been done in Turku. In many ways, it continues the great legacy of the Capital of Culture year.
“I am humbled by the fact that I can offer my skills in my hometown, striving toward such a wonderful goal. It deserves my very best,” Pensikkala says.