The main message of the Oulu2026 cultural programme is cultural climate change, presented through three themes: Wild City, Cool Contrasts and Brave Hinterland. Each theme will be launched by a major international flagship production.
Oulu2026 is run by the Oulu Cultural Foundation. The foundation develops Oulu as a city of culture and events, promotes the working conditions of artists and the cultural sector, and participates in activities to develop the cultural sector nationally and internationally.
Oulu Art Museum works closely with the Oulu Cultural Foundation to offer its expertise and facilities for the festival year. In 2026, Oulu Art Museum will host international exhibitions that explore themes of social and ecological sustainability, outlining viable and even magical futures. In addition, Oulu Art Museum is involved in the public art projects of the year and in developing a programme that extends to North Ostrobothnia and Kainuu.
You can find out more about the Oulu2026 initiatives here.
Sámi dáiddamusea – Sámi Art Museum
Sámi duodji, art, and events fill Oulu Art Museum from Mid-January to early May in 2026.
At the exhibition in Oulu Art Museum, the visitors get to familiarise themselves with the variety, resilience and sustainability of Sámi culture. Our exhibition combines the projects selected for Sápmi Triennale, Sámi handicraft known as duodji in North Sámi, works from different generations of Sámi artists, and soundscapes. In addition, we provide information, workshops and spaces for encounter.
