Espoo Artist of the Year 2024 is author Kaisa Paasto
The City of Espoo Culture Committee has awarded the 2024 working grant for professional artists to author Kaisa Paasto. The grant is awarded to one professional artist in Espoo for one year at a time.
Kaisa Paasto has published several children’s books and young adult fiction books, such as the popular Anni kaverinkesyttäjä (Anni the Friend Tamer) book series. Kaisa holds a Master’s degree in Comparative Literature.
“Now the time has come for me to become a full-time writer. It’s just perfect, as I have a lot of fun projects lined up. I’ll be working hard at my keyboard. Thank you, City of Espoo!” author Kaisa Paasto rejoices.
In the selection, attention was paid to Kaisa Paasto’s work plan, which was both topical and of high quality in terms of execution and artistic value. During 2024, Kaisa will write the second part to both the Prankenstein and Skandietsivät book series. These book series are aimed at children between 7 and 12 years of age.
The committee considered it important to promote literacy by supporting high-quality children and young people’s literature.
“Interesting and good-quality children’s books inspire children and young people to read. Kaisa’s books allow young people to process even difficult themes, such as being different. This develops emotional skills in addition to reading skills,” says Hanna Konttas, Chairperson of the Culture Committee.
The work of the children’s author also strengthens the image of Espoo as a city of authors.
“Artists thrive in a vibrant city. Espoo is home to many artists, and the working grant for professional artists aims to support culture and art-making in Espoo. Without art and artists, we have no cultural services or literature,” says Cultural Director Susanna Tommila.
The humorous Prankenstein series tells about Elmer, whose cousin Robin coaches him in the art of pulling pranks. The books cover themes such as disability and friendship. The first part of the book series will be published in spring 2024.
In the Skandietsivät series, three children and a dog solve crime mysteries. The books are set in different Scandinavian countries. The first two parts of the book series are expected to be published as e-books and audiobooks in late 2024.