Helsinki: World Design Capital 2012
Helsinki, situated on the Baltic Sea, is the capital of the Republic of Finland. The city identity has been formed by cultural influences from both the East and West, therefore, it’s lifestyle is full of contrasts and activities in the form of hundreds of events and friendly people.
For this reason, in 2000, while celebrating its 450th anniversary, Helsinki was declared official European City of Culture.
Presently, after 12 years, the city receives a new recognition, becoming World Design Capital 2012. For years, Helsinki has become one of the most liveable cities in the world, and it is interesting to note the important role that design has had in its urban development, for example with projects on urban lighting, those for the exploitation of local culture, such as the Finnish sauna, ecological projects, etc. thus improving the life of the city. This is a place where design is embedded into the open city design and concept.
Helsinki Design, enlarging the concept to the whole of Finland, is also part of world design, starting from the well-known global brands it is home to, such as Nokia, Kone and Marimekko, to the popular events it hosts, like the annual Helsinki Design Week, and up to the great architects and designers it has given birth to, as Eliel Saarinen and Alvar Aalto.
Therefore, the World Design Capital 2012 title is well deserved. “Helsinki Open – Embedded Design in Life“: this is the motto of the Finnish creative year: creativity towards sustainable development.
And, on this occasion, the city has scheduled a bursting program of exhibitions and events. Besides the many exhibitions – as “Seven Connections” on Finland contemporary architecture (Jan11/Feb26), Design World (Jan27/May6), “Ice Cellar” (Jan1/Dec31) etc. – there will also be plenty of events and festivals throughout the year.
The upcoming one is “WDC Open Doors Weekend,” February 3-5, 2012. Games, performances, clubs, guidance for visitors, and of course, design-related lectures, workshops and ideation projects.
From April 25 to December 31, it’s time for “Font Walk,” a dip in graphic design, in a route to be followed thanks to a map provided by Napa Gallery, where along with the fonts hidden around the city, you will have the opportunity to observe various public spaces which you may have passed by without paying attention.
In May, the annual event MoA, has a special meaning this year 2012. It is an exhibition of ideas and innovations as well as a festival, organised by the Aalto University, showcasing theses, diploma works and final projects submitted by the graduating Masters of Art.
Moreover, the “Design District Helsinki”, June 7 to 10, will start with a Late Night Shopping evening, and proceed with theme days, guided walking tours, meetings with designers, street events and other related events.
Finally, but only on our list, “Helsinki Design Week 2012,” September 6 to 16, brings together the international design community and local artists. With the aim of fulfilling social innovation through participatory design, the event will spread from the Cable Factory to the Old Customs Warehouse.
If you are looking for an interesting destination for your holidays, in Helsinki there will be something to do throughout the year!
Photo by CHRISTOPHER MACSURAK
About the Author
Elena Hey there! My name is Elena and I live in Pavia, where I work as a freelance journalist and Events Coordinator. My personal interests are culture, languages and art. I love travelling and learning about foreign cultures and different lifestyles, and then I like to share my experiences with others writing articles for this blog. My passions drive me forward to live the life of my dreams, and well that’s what I am really good at!
Related Posts
Ice hotels and ice bars in Europe: a chilly guide →
2 Responses to Helsinki: World Design Capital 2012