The sculpture exhibition Growth opens this summer in the garden of Kultaranta, the summer residence of the President of Finland. Produced by WAM Museum of Contemporary Art, the exhibition explores personal growth, the vitality of nature and sustainable coexistence.
Five artists working with acid-resistant steel and ceramics
The exhibition features five Finnish artists: Tarja Malinen, Umppa Niinivaara, Henna Nuutinen, Kimmo Schroderus,and Kim Simonsson.
The sculptures are made of acid-resistant steel, and ceramics in a variety of techniques. Placed within the living environment of the garden, the works open a dialogue between nature and mankind - a space of growth, renewal, and connection. The exhibition invites visitors to pause and reflect on how we might live more sustainably in the future.
Artists
Kimmo Schroderus (b. 1970) is known for large-scale, futuristic sculptures in acid-resistant steel. He studied at the Academy of Fine Arts in Helsinki and the Royal University College of Fine Arts in Stockholm. He received the prestigious Ars Fennica Award in 2004. Schroderus lives and works in Salo.
Tarja Malinen (b. 1961) creates works addressing young people's experiences of loneliness and concern for the future, as well as advocating for children's rights. She graduated from North Karelia University of Applied Sciences and completed a master's degree at LAB University of Applied Sciences. Malinen lives and works in Joensuu.
Umppa Niinivaara (b. 1970) makes ceramic sculptures inspired by nature, with organic shapes and textured surfaces. She earned her degree in visual arts from the Turku School of Fine Arts and completed a Master of Arts degree at the Winchester School of Art. Niinivaara lives and works in Karuna, Sauvo.
Henna Nuutinen (b. 1990) creates ceramic sculptures drawing on the sea, cliffs, and dark forests. Responsibility and biodiversity are central values in her practice. She earned a degree in design at South-Eastern Finland University of Applied Sciences and a Master of Arts degree from Aalto University. Nuutinen lives and works in Lahti.
Kim Simonsson (b. 1974)is known for mystical sculptures of children and animals, coated in varied shades and textures. Many of his works on display at Kultaranta are being shown for the first time. Simonsson earned a Master of Arts degree from the School of Arts and Design Helsinki. He was selected as Young Artist of the Year in 2004. Simonsson lives and works in Fiskars.
Visit Kultaranta
Guided tours in June, July and August 2026
- in English Fridays at 13:00 (as part of the Finnish-speaking tour)
- in Finnish Tuesdays to Sundays at 13:00
- in Swedish Thursdays at 13:00
- the gates are open to visit on Fridays at 18:00–20:00
For up-to-date information, please visit visitnaantali.com/en/Sights/kultaranta/