Helsinki Design Week 2016: Talks in Saunas and Air Installations

Helsinki Design Week runs until September 11 under the theme "Better," featuring 250 events across the city. Organizers have shifted focus from empty buildings to public spaces like streets, parks, shops, and galleries. A 2016 novelty includes a talk program held in public saunas, free of charge. The event also showcases an exhibition at Artek 2nd Cycle until December 16, "Furniture and glass from Aino and Alvar," presenting 14 iconic pieces by Alvar Aalto (1930–1950), a poster by Ben af Schultén, and Igor Herler's collection of Aino Aalto's "Bölgeblick" glass objects from Karhula Glassworks (1930s). The main attraction is 12 installations across the city, including a large air-compressed piece by Berlin-based Plastique Fantastique around the Three Smiths statue. The group also created an installation with Aalto University students in a courtyard designed by Aarno Ruusuvuori. The New Market section offers new design product series, with items available for purchase.