Art allows us to feel, emphasize, and learn cultural heritage as well as nurture a sense of belonging. It has been scientifically proven that art affects our physical and psychological well-being. (Fagioli, Biasi 2019).
But how art can help us be better educators? Exposing yourself to various forms of art and culture boosts creativity and innovation in both professional and academic life.
“The current relevant research shows compelling evidence that art education does positively impact critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills.” (Slice, 2019)
In our careers, we often seek new approaches, a more engaging way to communicate, or a way to break through the walls of existing knowledge and think outside the box. Similarly, in education, we might struggle to express our ideas and learnings or comprehend a complex concept. By observing and analyzing multiple forms of art we can learn the techniques and apply them to projects in our professional or educational fields.
Luckily, Finland has a diverse cultural scene and invites you to explore different forms and approaches to art. The annual Taideyö (Night of the Arts) was recently held in Helsinki. Participants could indulge in different art forms: late evening open museums, outdoor theatre performances, and movie screenings, literature events and discussions, a wide selection of musical concerts, and open-air painting exhibitions.
This time we gathered as a group of Xamk alumni and started our evening with the outdoor screening of Swan Lake at the Finnish National Opera. What a delight to enjoy classical tunes and magnificent ballet dancer movements under the late summer sunshine. Meanwhile, Opera House organised a flea market of costumes – an inspiring example of the combination of art and circular economy.
Another musical event was the “Helsinki Goes EDM“ playing at Kaisaniemi Park. While DJs were setting the set on fire with popular hits, people united in the celebration of art, summer and life. The next stop was the Vilma Jää concert at Esplanade Park produced by Savoy Theater and Espa stage. Vilma Jää combines Finno-Ugric singing traditions with pop aesthetics, and archetypal folk music instruments with synthetically produced beats. In her deeply rooted Finnish folk songs, Vilma dives into topics of harassment, climate change, and the importance of bringing tradition and folklore back to people.
The last highlight of the art night was Lauri Porra’s new composition BASSO at Senate Square. Performed by 130 of the finest low-voice artists of the country harmonically united with the line of low-frequency wind instruments and a powerful rhythm of electrical bass players and percussionists – it was a sight to experience! Magnificent visual work by Joonas Tikkanen accompanied the musical performance adding another layer to the whole experience.
Even though the event has passed, there are still plenty of opportunities to look out for to develop your creative touch this autumn:
- Helsinki Museum offers free entry to current exhibitions: “In the Quarters of Kruununhaka” from 17 September onward.
- Moving in November 7–11 November 2024. Moving in November is a contemporary dance festival organised yearly in the Helsinki area.
- Baltic Circle 22–30 November 2024. Baltic Circle is an international festival for contemporary theatre and performance organised annually in November in Helsinki.
- Yhteenkietoutuneet maailmat: 2 October 2024 – 2 March 2025. Explore nature and self-reflection with works by Rebecca Louise Law, IC-98, and others. Part of Vantaa’s 50th anniversary.
- Jacopo Bassano – Venice’s Renaissance Master: 12 September 2024 – 12 January 2025. Discover Bassano’s brilliant use of light and color at Sinebrychoff Art Museum.
- GOTHIC MODERN: 4 October 2024 – 26 January 2025. Modern art meets medieval and Northern Renaissance themes.
Thanks to Polina Vishina, Xamk alumni, for supporting the work on this article and to the shared company for attending the events.