Espoo’s Culture Committee keeps a balance between high culture and grassroots culture
For many of us, the word ‘culture’ brings to mind theatre, opera, or other forms of high culture. However, in our daily lives we are most likely to experience culture through libraries, cultural venues and community associations. All forms of culture have their place, and in Espoo they are overseen by the city’s Culture Committee. But what exactly are the responsibilities of the committee?
“The Culture Committee is a municipal decision-making body responsible for Espoo’s cultural budget. In practice, we decide how and where cultural funding is used. The framework for our work is established by the Act on Cultural Activities in Local Government and the City of Espoo’s administrative regulations,” summarises Hanna Konttas, Chair of the Culture Committee.
“Since Espoo also provides cultural services in cooperation with other operators, deciding on grants is a significant part of the committee’s work. For example, the annual grant for professional artists is an important recognition and opportunity for Espoo-based artists to pursue their careers,” she adds.
Culture is thriving in Espoo
The public debate on cultural issues often focuses on high-profile projects, such as the extension of the Espoo Cultural Centre or the Taiteiden talo arts house in Espoonlahti. However, Konttas also emphasises the importance of grassroots-level cultural activities, such as libraries and basic education in the arts.
“More than half of Espoo’s cultural budget is spent on library services and various grants. Other examples of low-threshold cultural activities include Culture Call for day care centres and the KULPS Culture and Sports Path for schools,” she lists.
Konttas believes that investing in culture enhances people’s wellbeing and promotes equal opportunities. It is important to bring attention to all forms of culture, whether the projects are large or small.
“For example, Espoo Day has become a well-established event for Espoo residents, and each neighbourhood hosts its own unique events and activities. The best part is that the number of visitors to professional art and cultural communities in Espoo has already exceeded the target set for 2024.”
“All in all, I think that culture is thriving in Espoo. And if anyone disagrees, they may be taking things like libraries for granted,” she says.
Books and cinema
Konttas herself enjoys a wide range of culture, from music and concerts to cinema, theatre, opera, and ballet. However, libraries hold a special place in her heart.
“Espoo’s libraries are my favourite cultural spaces,” Konttas says.
“And among events, perhaps Espoo Ciné(external link, opens in a new window), because it offers a chance to see films that may never make it to commercial distribution,” she adds.
“I also have to mention another favourite place of mine: Kino Tapiola(external link, opens in a new window). They have just installed incredibly comfortable new seats – thanks to a grant from the Culture Committee,” Konttas laughs.
Cultural tips
And now to Konttas’s cultural tips. True to form, she wants to highlight a wide range of events from Espoo’s cultural offerings.
Christmas in Glims 1.12.2024–5.1.2025, Glims Farmstead Museum
“Throughout December, there are family-friendly events at Glims Farmstead Museum. Visitors can learn about traditional Christmas celebrations and soak in the festive atmosphere.”
VocalEspoo & Urkuyö ja Aaria: J.S. Bach – Christmas Oratorio 1 December 2024, Espoo Cathedral
“After Glims, in the evening, there is a concert at Espoo Cathedral – a collaboration between VocalEspoo and Urkuyö ja Aaria featuring Bach’s oratorio. This set of events is a great way to start the holiday season.”
Silent Book Club 3 December 2024, Lippulaiva Library
“My next tip is book-related. The Silent Book Club at Lippulaiva Library is a completely new concept for me. I fell in love with it because I enjoy the quiet atmosphere after a hectic workday. This combines two things I hold dear – literature and silence.”
The Nutcracker performed by the Ukrainian Ballet 7 December 2024, Tapiola Hall
“The following recommendation is a slightly more serious one. Life is good here in Espoo and Finland, but we must not forget those who are struggling. The Ukrainian Ballet will perform The Nutcracker at Tapiola Hall, and as a gesture of support for Ukrainians, I plan to attend.”
Emma & Matilda 12 December 2024, Kannusali
“My last tip is an event at Kannusali. A new singing duo, Emma & Matilda, will perform dreamlike, beautiful music with stunning lyrics. Although Kannusali has a bar and a licensed area, this concert is for people of all ages. I’m planning to take my youngest along for this one.”