Espoo Artists’ Guild:
The Value of Art

In his 1952 book Einar Ilmoni – Kangasalan erakko (Einar Ilmoni – The Hermit of Kangasala), Håkan Gadolin describes the artist as a genius of exceptional artistic talent – despite his inherited “degenerative traits” (to quote the author).  

Fortunately, artists are no longer described in such harsh terms. Today, artistic talent and the vocation of an artist are generally regarded as valuable – as something that enriches society both intellectually and culturally, and sometimes economically as well.  

Founded in 2009, the Espoo Artists’ Guild is an association of professional artists with 54 members. In Espoo, artists work in remarkably diverse surroundings: some in the heart of the forest, others in bustling suburban neighbourhoods.  

One of the most important roles of a small association is to maintain connections among its members and foster a sense of community. The Espoo Artists’ Guild has sought to present the work of Espoo-based artists in distinguished exhibition venues, both locally and throughout Finland. Its geographical reach has extended in every direction: the Guild has exhibited in Keuruu, Imatra, Kokemäki, Lahti and Tampere, among other places.  

Winter will soon arrive, and the sea will freeze over. Before then, however, we have time to visit beautiful Suomenlinna and bring an exhibition by the Espoo Artists’ Guild to the historic Rantakasarmi – one of the finest exhibition spaces in our neighbouring city. 

Sofia Wilkman  

Chair, Espoo Artists’ Guild   

This exhibition has been supported by the City of Espoo.   

www.espoontaiteilijakilta.fi  

@espoontaiteilijakilta 

Notice! Opening hours: Tuesday–Thursday 12–6pm, Friday–Sunday 12–4pm