ArtDependence | Helsinki Biennial’s Second Edition Opens to the Public on Sunday 11 June

Friday, June 9, 2023

By envisioning various speculative futures, Helsinki Biennial: New Directions May Emerge brings together 29 international artists and collectives to explore alternative ways of living in, and understanding, the world. Curated by Joasia Krysa with five curatorial collaborators, the second edition engages with some of the pressing issues of our time, addressing environmental damage, political conflict and the impact of technology. On view until 17 September 2023, the biennial comprises around 50% new commissions and site-specific works that span installation, sculpture, film and performance.

Building on the first edition’s responsible approach to exhibition making, the biennial fosters collaboration with sustainability agency Positive Impact to create a new sustainability programme for both the biennial and wider HAM Helsinki Art Museum. Furthermore, it has continued to work closely with organisations and experts to make informed choices about hosting its second edition. For example, the idea and placement of each artwork has again been assessed with Metsähallitus (Parks and Wildlife Finland) and the Finnish Heritage Agency, with a focus on the conservation of both nature and historical buildings.

This year, Helsinki Biennial returns to Vallisaari, a former military island that is the most diverse natural and recreational destination in the Helsinki archipelago. 15 artworks will be situated on the island, both outdoors and within its historical gunpowder cellars, each operating in subtle dialogue with the surrounding environment and its unique ecosystem.