New mural at the Kannusali event venue reflects the area’s nature and cultural life

Visual artist and illustrator Laura Lehtinen’s (b. 1982) new mural There Is Something Moving Under leads visitors step by step towards the cultural experiences awaiting them in Kannusali’s underground spaces. The work can be viewed in the entrance corridor during Kannusali’s opening hours. 

Spanning more than 60 metres, the painting is the artist’s interpretation of the Kannusillanmäki area and its local stories. In the work, urban life and concerts intertwine with the nature of the surrounding area. Kannusillanmäki is known as an important butterfly habitat, where more than 700 butterfly and moth species have been recorded. Two moth species native to the area flutter among the flowers in the mural: the varied coronet and the critically endangered jubilee fan-foot. The Kannusilta bridge rising beside them refers to a local legend according to which men would leave their liquor jugs beneath a bridge that once stood nearby while attending church.

“Public art belongs to everyone, which is why Kannusali’s new mural is a significant cultural contribution to Espoo as a whole,” says Leena Hoppania, Manager of Cultural Services at the City of Espoo.

“Laura Lehtinen’s work enriches the urban environment, makes art easily accessible and strengthens local identity. The mural serves as a shared landmark where people can pause and discover new perspectives on their surroundings.”

The artist was selected through an open call that attracted nearly 150 portfolios from professional artists and artist groups from a range of backgrounds and at different stages of their careers. Alongside experts from EMMA and Kannusali staff, the selection process involved Paavo Kärki and Aino Tillonen, artists in residence at the Tapiola Studio House. 

There Is Something Moving Under is part of the museum’s continually growing EMMA Collection, which comprises 3,000 works, a significant proportion of which are displayed in Espoo’s urban environment and public spaces. Through its public art projects, EMMA aims to enrich urban culture, foster a sense of community and offer inspiring encounters with art to residents across Espoo. 

Kannusali will celebrate the new work with an opening event on 8 October at 6 p.m. A warm welcome to all!