The summer 2026 sculpture exhibition Growth, presented in the gardens of Kultaranta, the summer residence of the President of the Republic of Finland, brings together works by five leading Finnish contemporary artists. The exhibition invites visitors to pause, engage with art and reflect on what sustainable growth means for both people and the environment. The President of the Republic of Finland Alexander Stubb and his spouse, Suzanne Innes-Stubb, officially opened the exhibition at Kultaranta in Naantali on Friday 5 June.
The exhibition is a collaboration between WAM Museum of Contemporary Art, the Alfred Kordelin Foundation and the Office of the President of the Republic of Finland. It has been curated by Maria Huokkola of WAM.
“This is the first exhibition produced by WAM at Kultaranta, and we are proud to present the work of five outstanding Finnish contemporary sculptors. We hope that as many people as possible will visit the exhibition this summer and experience art within this unique garden setting,” says Satu Pajarre, Director of WAM.
“It is wonderful that the presidential couple continue to welcome artists and art lovers to Kultaranta each year, helping to raise the profile of Finnish sculpture. In this way, contemporary art becomes part of a nationally significant cultural continuum. The exhibition, which is open to everyone, also reflects the Alfred Kordelin Foundation’s long-standing commitment to making art accessible to all,” says Erik Båsk, CEO of the Foundation.
Sculpture in Dialogue with a Historic Garden
The works in the exhibition explore themes of human growth, the vitality of nature and the relationship between people and the natural world. Created in ceramic and acid-resistant steel, the sculptures draw inspiration from childhood, personal development and nature’s capacity for renewal.
Tarja Malinen’s works address themes of youth loneliness, hope and children’s rights. Umppa Niinivaara’s organic ceramic sculptures evoke natural forms, the origins of life and biodiversity. Henna Nuutinen’s works examine the condition of waterways, biodiversity and environmental responsibility. Kimmo Schroderus’ futuristic steel sculptures explore growth through ideas, creativity and visions of the future. Kim Simonsson’s mystical child figures and animal motifs reflect on innocence, curiosity and respect for nature.
Set within the historic gardens of Kultaranta in Naantali, the artworks become part of a unique cultural landscape. Integrated into the living environment of the gardens, the sculptures create a dialogue between humanity and nature, offering visitors an opportunity to reflect on renewal, connection and responsibility.
The exhibition will remain on display until 30 August 2026. Brief guided tours of the garden are available in English on Fridays at 13.00. Tickets must be booked in advance via lippu.fi.
Admission to the Kultaranta gardens is free on Fridays until 25 September, from 18.00 to 20.00. For further information about visiting and any exceptions to opening hours, please visit visitnaantali.com.
Read more: The exhibition´s website
More information
Anna Chydenius
Communications Specialist
Alfred Kordelin Foundation
tel. 050 577 6552
Maria Huokkola
Curator of the Exhibition
WAM Museum of Contemporary Art
tel. 040 169 6893