Linnanniemi is a pilot site for connecting public art as an integral and visible part of the planning and construction of the area.
Developing Linnanniemi as Turku's first arts district is a major investment in the city's attractiveness. Turku already has a rich and varied tradition of public art, but does not yet have an official art district.
The selection of Linnanniemi as an art district is part of Turku's public art programme, which was confirmed in February 2022. Project Manager Julia Chir considers Linnanniemi to be the ideal area to pilot the arts programme.
"The Turku city plan states that the Linnanniemi area is well suited for cultural use. The identity of the Linnanniemi area is defined by its valuable cultural history, which can be strengthened and made visible through art and culture,” Chir explains.
84 % of Turku residents want art in their everyday environment.
Art present and visible
The art will take the form of both permanent elements and temporary structures across Linnanniemi. In the area, an artistic complex will be built along transport connections and at key meeting points.
The aim is to make sure that, when you arrive in the area, you really feel that you have reached an art district.
“In the future, anyone walking through the Linnanniemi area will have a wonderful opportunity to be surprised and delighted by art and culture. The Linnanniemi area is also an excellent arena for artists and cultural creators to highlight their expertise,” says special expert Irina Niemimäki.
A shared investment in a welcoming environment
The works of art and projects presented in the Linnanniemi Art Programme are mainly being funded by private money. For the first time in Turku, the area will introduce an ‘art charge’, whereby a 3% contribution will be collected from selected developers to be invested in art.
The redevelopment of Linnanniemi is a process that will take many years, but temporary works and events will enliven the area before and during construction. The investment by the City of Turku will enable an early start for art projects in the area. This will ensure the early development of a vibrant and attractive area. An interesting city is one where things happen and which manages to surprise even in the midst of everyday life.
Investing in culture is part of sustainable urban development, contributing to a vibrant urban fabric. The development of Turku's first arts district is a new venture for Turku, and the lessons learned will be closely monitored.
- Linnanniemi is being developed into Turku's first art district, and the art programme will guide the area's development towards this goal.
- The art programme defines the themes of the arts and events, as well as the locations, measures and funding models for art.
- The art program has been approved by Turku City Council on June 5, 2023.
- The art program has an English summary.