Finnish culture and history are rich, layered and, above all, interesting. Over the centuries, our national identity has been shaped by many different factors. One important part of this ongoing story is the Ateneum Art Museum, warmly located in the centre of Helsinki. The museum has been a central part of the Finnish art and culture scene for many decades, and has played an essential role in the careers of many Finnish artists.
The story of the Ateneum dates back to the late 19th century, when it opened to the public in 1888. The museum was founded to promote art culture and make it accessible to the Finnish public. With the largest collection of Finnish art in the country resting in its lap, the Ateneum has succeeded in its mission. The collection includes more than 20 000 works of art, reflecting the many facets of Finnishness in different eras. Among the museum's most famous works are Albert Edelfelt's "March of the Porians", Akseli Gallen-Kallela's "Kalevala series" and Eero Järnefelt's "Raatajat rahanalaiset".
The Ateneum Art Museum has always been at the forefront of presenting both traditional and modern art. It has provided a stage for both international classics and bold Finnish innovators. Of course, the museum is not just a custodian of works of art, but actively contributes to the debate on art and culture by organising lectures, workshops and events aimed at giving people a more diverse experience and understanding of art.
In summary, the Ateneum Art Museum is an important part of the Finnish cultural landscape. Not only because of its art collections and exhibitions, but also because of its role in promoting and diversifying the Finnish art scene. The Ateneum tells the story of Finnish art and its development from the Golden Age to the present day - it is like a treasure chest of Finnishness, each layer of which leads us deeper into our national identity. It is a story that goes on, and it is a story that every Finn should know.