Public Art Course Culminates in Competition Between Free Art School Students – 15 Works Acquired for the HUS Collection

Throughout the year, students of the Free Art School participated in a comprehensive learning programme on public art, exploring its societal role under the guidance of practicing artists and other professionals in the field. The curriculum included lectures on the functions and benefits of public art, as well as its role in healthcare and wellbeing. Public art was also examined as part of the urban environment of Helsinki.

As part of the course, several established visual artists shared their own experiences of working with public commissions. Students visited the iconic Paimio Sanatorium and created site-specific works in an assisted living environment as part of their hands-on studies.

The project concluded with a competition in which HUS selected a diverse group of works to be added to its public art collection. The selected pieces reflected a wide range of approaches and artistic voices from across the student body.

Amanda Lindström, who graduated as a painter from the Free Art School in spring 2024, shares her thoughts on the experience:

“It matters what surrounds us – it’s immediate interaction, and where art is present, part of us leans into its atmosphere, drawn to a sign of life. I feel that the HUS competition and this project have opened a new direction for my painting. I noticed how the mood of a painting could shift, and I began to consider the kinds of spaces where a painting might find harmony.”

Principal Elina Merenmies reflects:

“The students eagerly participated with dozens of impressive works. I warmly congratulate those whose paintings were selected.”

Read more about the project, its lecturers and instructors: The Free Art School and HUS Art Committee collaborate on public art studies.