The best way to check out the contemporary art scene in Helsinki is simply to visit all its lovely galleries. Admission is always free of charge, and everyone is more than welcome to view their current exhibitions. The galleries also present the latest creations by a fantastic range of artists, so no two are alike!
Helsinki Contemporary
Helsinki Contemporary is a trendy gallery that focuses on young artists that you will find across the street from the Old Church Park. With its fresh exhibitions, the gallery has secured a spot on the city's art scene – its vernissages attract hipsters both young and old.
Bulevardi 10
Galerie Anhava
Galerie Anhava showcases both conceptual and visual forms of expression, in one or two storeys depending on the exhibition. The gallery roots for modernism and minimalism, but also for new attitudes and fresh breezes in the arts world. There is a often a focus on Nordic artists. Painting, photography, sculpture, video, and installations from both well-known artists and newcomers.
Fredrikinkatu 43
Huuto and Rankka
Huuto is run by an independent artist collective and presents professional and highly skillful exhibitions by both new and established artists. The handsome gallery is situated in the former laboratory rooms of the Helsinki University of Technology on Eerikinkatu. At the same address you will find another gallery, Rankka, which presents exhibitions by creative fringe artists.
Eerikinkatu 36
Galerie Forsblom
While the Oksasenkatu art space is focused on small scale and light exhibitions, Forsblom offers a large scale and heavier feeling. The gallery's selection includes both internationally acclaimed and Finnish artists, including early career talent. Most exhibitions are centred around painting and sculpture. The grandiose space at the corner of the Old Church Park is often divided into two distinct main exhibitions. In addition, there are sometimes minor exhibitions hosted in the smaller studio space.
Lönnrotinkatu 5 / Yrjönkatu 22
Heino
Heino presents often intriguing exhibitions, such as stunning paper art and compelling video installations. It’s also very quiet in the gallery, and you might find that you’re the only one there. Of course, there is video surveillance, so hands off the art!
Uudenmaankatu 16-20
SIC
The artist-driven gallery showcases art by both new and established artists. Built inside office space in the Kannelmäki district, the gallery presents carefully hung exhibitions. The space exhibits quality art, sometimes minimalist and neat, sometimes exuberant and clumsy, made using different tools!
Purpuripolku 3-5
Kosminen
Kosminen presents exhibitions especially by new artists. The range of materials and expressions is wide. The non-profit artist-driven space showcases art from performances to photographs and videos to paintings. Kosminen also hosts events and discussions, and it also sells its own Khaos-branded printed products. The youthful gallery is inviting and entices visitors to return!
Pursimiehenkatu 13
Sinne
Sinne is run by the Pro Artibus Foundation in the centre of Helsinki and presents often conceptual and unpretentious exhibitions. The art can be characterised as minimalist and neat. The range of exhibitions is wide, however, from wall-mounted exhibitions to ambitious video and object installations. The attitudes also range from serious to playful!
Iso Roobertinkatu 16