EMMA – Espoo Museum of Modern Art invites artists to apply through an open portfolio call for two public art projects in 2026

The aim of Espoo’s public art projects is to enrich urban culture and, through art, create meaningful encounters, engaging artistic offerings and a sense of community. The portfolio call organised by EMMA seeks artists for projects to be realised at Kannusali in Espoon keskus, and in Suvela. Rather than requesting finished artwork proposals, the call seeks an overview of artists’ previous artistic practice. Prior experience of producing artworks specifically for public spaces is not required. The call is open to professional artists and artist groups working in Finland, from diverse backgrounds and at different stages of their careers.

“The portfolio call is a new initiative by the museum to identify artists interested in public art. We hope the call will generate interest and reach artists working in Finland as broadly as possible,” says Lotta Hannuksela, EMMA’s Collections Coordinator.

Further information on the projects: 

1) Mural for Kannusali, Espoon keskus 

Kannusali is a versatile event venue hosting concerts, theatre performances, film screenings and seminars throughout the year. The facilities are located in the underground Kannusillanmäki civil defence shelter, close to Espoon keskus railway station. The artwork will be realised as a mural in the entrance foyer of Kannusali. The artist’s fee is €10,000, including a fee for the sketch. 

2) Artwork for the Suvela residential area

Suvela is a multicultural and rapidly growing residential area in the Espoon keskus district. A permanent artwork will be realised in the area’s outdoor spaces and must include participatory working methods as part of its production. The project schedule, approach and budget will be developed in collaboration with the selected artist. 

The call is open until 12 February at 3.00pm (Finnish time). Detailed application instructions are available on EMMA’s website.