As part of the Cultural Policy Research Days, a panel discussion open to everyone will be held. The discussion will be held in Finnish.
Panel Discussion: Spaces for Art and Culture in Joensuu
Time: Thursday, April 24, 2025, from 4:30 PM to 5:30 PM
Location: Art Center Ahjo, Kirkkokatu 23, 80100 Joensuu
Spaces are a vital enabler of cultural activity. At best, they support operations by providing appropriate and functional settings. At worst, they stand empty and unused. A space is formed through shared activity, while at the same time, the space shapes the activity and interaction within it.
In many municipalities and cities, space-related issues in cultural activities are a key tool of urban policy, a matter of cultural policy, and a challenge for the future.
The panel will discuss the spaces available for art and culture in Joensuu, exploring questions such as:
- What is the current state of spaces for art and culture in Joensuu? What are the main challenges? What is working well?
- What does the future look like? What kinds of development needs and proposals do different actors have for improving space-related issues?
Panelists include
- Merja Pennanen, Theatre Maker, Community Artist
- Rauli Katajavuori, Executive Director of Sirkus Supiainen Association, Theatre Director at NÄYTTÄMÖ, Theatre Directing Teacher at Riveria Folk High School, Artist
- Tiia-Mari Mäkinen, Arts Advisor, Bridge Builders regional development project, Arts Promotion Centre Finland (Taike)
- Pirkko Ahola, Coordinator, City of Joensuu.
The panel will be chaired by Professor Miikka Pyykkönen from the University of Jyväskylä. Before the discussion, Miikka Pyykkönen will give a brief introduction on the topic of spaces for art and culture. This introduction will address space-related questions particularly in the context of Jyväskylä, based on interview research conducted among different stakeholder groups – the independent scene, institutions, and the city.