Oulu, the Finnish city set to become the European Capital of Culture in 2026, has announced the opening of an art trail dedicated to climate change. This unique initiative will be part of the official program, aiming to connect art and science through a series of installations reflecting today’s environmental challenges.

Art in the Service of Ecology

Scheduled to open in June 2026, the trail will feature seven site-specific artworks installed at various locations across the region. Each piece will be created in collaboration with scientists and designed to blend into the surrounding natural environment. One of the most striking works comes from the artistic collective SUPERFLEX. They will install an artwork in the coastal area of Haukipudas. If sea levels rise, the installation will become part of the marine ecosystem and support biodiversity.

Diverse Locations and Artistic Expressions

In addition to Haukipudas, visitors will find artworks in other areas surrounding Oulu. Installations will be placed in the forested landscape along the Iijoki River, home to the Kierikki Stone Age Center, as well as near the Koiteli river rapids in Kiiminki. Other locations include Ylikiiminki, known for its traditional Tar Festival, the suburban area of Oulunsalo, and Oulu’s central city square.

You can find more interesting destinations here.

Community Engagement Through Art

A special feature of this project is The Most Valuable Clock in the World, an artwork created in collaboration with Oulu’s residents. The clock’s hands will illustrate the region’s natural annual cycle. While the seconds will highlight everyday moments captured by local people. This interactive piece will tour different municipalities, further connecting the community with the message of climate awareness.

A Message for the Future

Curator Alice Sharp emphasized the crucial role that art can play in raising awareness about environmental issues.

The clock is ticking, the snow is melting, and we are relearning what our ancestors always knew – nature has its own rhythm, independent of human plans – said Sharp.

Oulu aims to use its 2026 cultural program to create a lasting impact on how climate change is perceived through art. The goal is to encourage creativity, promote sustainable development, and foster a more open approach to global environmental challenges.