Summary

The closure of public and private services in Finland’s countryside has left thousands of empty schools, banks, shops, health care centres and town halls. Three young Finnish artists, who had worked in artist residences abroad, wanted to create something similar in Finland. They thought its remote rural location could be inspiring. 

Three Finnish artists used EAFRD funding to transform the former school into living and working facilities for international artists including a range of audio, photography and artistic equipment. The individual bedrooms were also well equipped.   

Results

By the end of 2016, nearly 600 artists from over 50 countries have been able to develop their creative projects at the site.

Nearly 20 people have worked in the centre, with three full-time jobs created.

In six years it has grown into one of the largest and most international residency centres in all Scandinavia.

The local community renovated an arts exhibition hall.