Open Call: New International EMMA-Saastamoinen Curatorial Fellowship Programme

EMMA-Saastamoinen Curatorial Fellowship Programme

The international EMMA-Saastamoinen Curatorial Fellowship Programme is a new form of collaboration between EMMA – Espoo Museum of Modern Art and the Saastamoinen Foundation. During the three-year programme, the museum and foundation will annually invite a curator to Finland to work as part of EMMA’s multidisciplinary team. The programme offers curators the opportunity to delve into research related to one of Finland's most significant art collections, become acquainted with professional practices at EMMA as part of the exhibition and collection teams, and build networks within the Finnish art scene. 

The aim of this international collaboration is to exchange perspectives and practices in curating, encourage research and support professional development. We are seeking applicants with a drive and vision for curating contemporary art. Applications are welcome from both experienced curators and those at the early stages in their careers. At the end of the fellowship period, the curator will produce a research article on a work, artist, or art movement based on their work with the collection.

More information about the programme and application instructions on EMMA's website.

EMMA – Espoo Museum of Modern Art fosters a unique dialogue between modern art, design, and contemporary art. The largest art museum in Finland, with over 6000 m² of exhibition space, EMMA is located in Tapiola, Espoo, at the WeeGee Exhibition Centre. The building, designed by architect Aarno Ruusuvuori (1924–1992) as a printing house, is an iconic example of 1960s industrial architecture. The impressive architecture and surrounding nature create exceptional conditions for experiencing EMMA’s exhibitions. The museum hosts around 6 new exhibitions annually, alongside permanent displays of art and design from the Collection Kakkonen, the Saastamoinen Foundation, and the Tapio Wirkkala Rut Bryk Foundation. EMMA is also responsible for providing expertise in public art projects commissioned by the City of Espoo, integrating art into urban spaces and daily life. 

The Saastamoinen Foundation Art Collection is one of the most significant collections of Finnish and international art, continually acquiring new works. The foundation is a founding partner of EMMA and one of the museum’s long-term collaborators. The art collection was deposited at EMMA when the museum was established and now includes nearly 3,000 works. The collection, which remains in the foundation’s ownership, is housed at EMMA. Its origins lie in the home collection of a Kuopio-based industrial family from the 1910s. The foundation was established in 1968 to offer invigorating impulses of science and art to society, and it has since supported the expansion, preservation, and exhibition of the art collection.