Helsinki Biennial 2027 Reveals Theme and 12 Artists

Helsinki Biennial 2027 contemporary art exhibition at Vallisaari Island in Helsinki — *Mami Kataoka (left) and Arja Miller (right). Photo: Kerttu Malinen. Courtesy Helsinki Art Museum (HAM) and Helsinki Biennial*

Following a record-breaking edition that attracted more than half a million visits, Helsinki Biennial returns in summer 2027.

The fourth edition will invite visitors to discover world-class contemporary art across the historic island of Vallisaari, Esplanade Park and HAM Helsinki Art Museum.

The biennial has now revealed its theme, Unknowns, and announced its first 12 participating artists.

Helsinki Biennial combines contemporary art with nature, maritime landscapes and vibrant city life in a distinctly Helsinki setting.

Located a short ferry ride from the city centre, Vallisaari Island offers an unusual backdrop for contemporary art. Visitors can explore works among wild island nature, historic fortifications and panoramic views across the Baltic Sea.

The experience continues at Esplanade Park, Helsinki’s iconic urban promenade. From there, visitors can head to HAM Helsinki Art Museum, one of Finland’s leading contemporary art institutions.

United by the theme Unknowns, the 2027 edition explores curiosity, imagination and the possibilities that emerge when we embrace what we do not yet understand.

For travellers seeking culture, design, architecture, food and nature in one destination, Helsinki Biennial offers another reason to visit the Finnish capital. The event runs from 6 June to 19 September 2027, during Helsinki’s brightest and most vibrant season.

12 Artists Announced for Helsinki Biennial 2027

Helsinki Biennial 2027 will bring together approximately 45 artists and artist groups from Finland and around the world.

The first 12 participating artists are:

Ari Bayuaji (Indonesia/Canada)
Tara Donovan (United States)
Laurent Grasso (France)
Marguerite Humeau (France/United Kingdom)
Matias Karsikas (Finland)
Britta Marakatt-Labba (Sápmi/Sweden)
Ragnhild May (Denmark)
Yoshitomo Nara (Japan)
Josefina Nelimarkka (Finland)
Tawatchai Puntusawasdi (Thailand)
Anna Retulainen (Finland)
Jakob Kudsk Steensen (Denmark)

Further participants will be announced in the coming months.

Helsinki Biennial 2027 is curated by Mami Kataoka and Arja Miller. Photo: Kerttu Malinen, HAM / Helsinki Biennial.

Exploring the Unknowns

Curated by Mami Kataoka and Arja Miller, Helsinki Biennial 2027 centres on the theme Unknowns.

Rather than offering clear answers, the biennial encourages audiences to engage with mystery, wonder and uncertainty through art.

The programme draws inspiration from fields including astronomy, geology, science, mythology and spirituality.

Through these perspectives, the biennial encourages visitors to imagine new ways of understanding both the visible and invisible worlds around us.

A Growing International Attraction

Helsinki Biennial recorded approximately 568,000 visits in 2025. As a result, it has become one of the Nordic region’s leading contemporary art events.

It is also becoming an increasingly important attraction for international visitors.

The biennial brings together internationally acclaimed artists, cultural professionals and audiences from around the world. In turn, it offers travellers another compelling reason to experience Helsinki in summer.

The event also reflects what makes Helsinki distinctive. Visitors can encounter contemporary art across a historic island, vibrant public spaces and a leading art museum, all within easy reach of one another.

Alicja Kwade’s Big Be-Hide (2022) recalls the very first Helsinki Biennial, held in 2021. Photo: Maija Toivanen, HAM.

Art That Leaves a Lasting Legacy

Helsinki Biennial offers more than a temporary exhibition experience.

Several artworks commissioned for previous editions have become permanent additions to Helsinki’s public art collection. Together, they are creating a growing cultural legacy across the city.

For visitors, this means each edition can leave a lasting mark on Helsinki. The experience therefore extends beyond the summer of the biennial itself.