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Helsinki Biennial returns in summer 2025, stronger than ever. In its third edition, this major contemporary art event brings together 37 international artists and artist groups from around the world and unfolds uniquely across Vallisaari Island, Esplanadi Park, and HAM Helsinki Art Museum. The Biennial will be open to the public from June 8 to September 21, 2025.
The Theme of Shelter Invites Us to See, Listen, and Experience
This year’s Biennial carries the theme Shelter: Beneath and Beyond the Surface, Becoming Something and Belonging Somewhere. The theme invites us to reflect on the concept of shelter in its many forms – physical, ecological, and societal. Curators Blanca de la Torre and Kati Kivinen found inspiration particularly in Vallisaari island’s preserved nature and biodiversity.
The artworks explore shelter not only from a human perspective but also from that of other species. Plants, animals, insects, minerals, and even the holistic well-being of our planet come to the fore.
A Global Line-up of Acclaimed Artists
The list of participating artists is impressive. Among them are Maria Thereza Alves (BR/DE), Band of Weeds (FI), Olafur Eliasson (DK/IS), Ernesto Neto (BR), Yayoi Kusama (JP), Nomeda Urbonas & Gediminas Urbonas, Giuseppe Penone, Hans Rosenström and numerous leading Finnish contemporary artists. In total, 57 works will be presented throughout Helsinki, half of which are newly commissioned pieces.
Three Unique Locations – Thousands of Experiences
Vallisaari offers an unforgettable setting where nature and art meet. The island is accessible by ferry operated by FRS Finland from the Market Square, with regular service throughout the summer. Esplanadi Park transforms into an open-air art stage, where artworks are freely accessible to all. At HAM Helsinki Art Museum in Tennispalatsi, exhibitions provide a deeper context to the theme.
Free Ferry Rides to Vallisaari on Three Fridays
While HAM charges an entrance fee, all other Biennial locations are free to visit – since there are free ferry rides on three Fridays: on 27 of June, 25th of July, and 29th of August.
Helsinki Invites Students to Participate
The Biennial emphasizes accessibility, including for school groups. The City of Helsinki invites up to 10,000 students to visit Vallisaari in August and September. The goal is to offer young people memorable art experiences that go beyond textbooks!
A Lasting Artistic Legacy
The City of Helsinki aims for each Biennial to leave a permanent mark on the cityscape. Previous Biennials introduced lasting artworks such as Alicja Kwade’s Big Be-Hide and Laura Könönen’s Ei talvista rajaa tunne.
Discover, Experience, and Participate
Helsinki Biennial 2025 is a full urban experience. It unites the sea, forest, and city, invites visitors of all ages, and encourages everyone to pause and engage with art in everyday life.
Opening Hours and Practical Info:
- Helsinki Biennial: June 8 – September 21, 2025
- Esplanadi Park exhibitions: open daily
- HAM Helsinki: Tue–Sun 11am–6pm (Wed 11am–7pm)
- Vallisaari: Tue–Sun 11am–6pm (also open during Midsummer)
Ferry to Vallisaari:
- Departs from Market Square with FRS Finland, journey approx. 20 minutes
- Regular round-trip ticket €10.90
- Free ferry days: June 27, July 25, August 29
More Information and Schedules:
www.helsinkibiennaali.fi
Helsinki Biennial is also good way to spend Helsinki’s 475 years birthday today, on 12th June, 2025. Congratulations Helsinki!
This article is part of my
→ Trip to Helsinki – Visual Travel Guide.
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