Fotografiska Tallinn's PLAY exhibition debuts in Finland as part of Oulu2026 European Capital of Culture

Oulu, Finland, designated European Capital of Culture for 2026 and a UNESCO City of Media Arts, launches a year-long program titled Cultural Climate Change. The initiative involves 39 municipalities presenting thousands of events, installations, and artistic interventions. Fotografiska Tallinn's exhibition PLAY makes its Finnish debut within this framework, exploring curiosity, improvisation, and human connection through immersive, participatory design. The exhibition features works by artists including Martin Parr, Bruce Davidson, Cristina de Middel, Nina Katchadourian, Trent Parke, Joosep Kivimäe, Rineke Dijkstra, Yayoi Kusama, and Olafur Eliasson. Sound compositions by musician Erki Pärnoja shape the multisensory experience. PLAY encourages active engagement, positioning creative exploration as a method for resilience and presence. Oulu2026's broader program highlights include major public art initiatives like Climate Clock, the Arctic Food Lab, and the expanded Lumo Art & Tech Festival. The Risku program showcases Sámi art and heritage. Executive Director and Co-Founder Margit Aasmäe emphasizes Fotografiska Tallinn's regional commitment, linking the exhibition to their Emerging Artists program. The exhibition runs at Fotografiska, Tallinn until the end of 2026. The Oulu2026 program blends festivals, community encounters, and thematic explorations of northern culture, positioning creativity as essential for societal adaptation.