Fotografiska Tallinn Opens a Major Exhibition in the European Capital of Culture Oulu
European Capital of Culture 2026 | Photography | Contemporary Art
©Oulu2026
In 2026, the Finnish city of Oulu takes center stage as the European Capital of Culture, exploring the idea of cultural climate change. As part of this ambitious program, Fotografiska Tallinn presents PLAY, a major group exhibition created specifically for Oulu2026 — and marking Fotografiska Tallinn’s first exhibition in Finland.
From 14 January until 31 December 2026, PLAY invites locals and visitors to experience photography as a space for curiosity, imagination, and human connection.
PLAY: Photography as an Attitude Toward Life
An exhibition about joy, rebellion, and resilience
Choi Hung Estate, Day two  ©Pelle Cass
PLAY explores the concept of play not as something childish, but as a powerful way of being present in the world. Through photography, sound, and visual storytelling, the exhibition reflects on play as:
A source of joy and freedom
A form of resistance and imagination
A non-verbal language that connects us
The exhibition unfolds as a multidisciplinary journey, encouraging visitors to slow down, look closer, and reconnect with spontaneous, unplanned moments of creativity.
“Play is a different way of being present — it reflects the space we allow ourselves to explore and experiment, regardless of age.”
— Jorven Viilik, Brand and Artistic Director, Fotografiska Tallinn
International Artists Shaping PLAY
“Perfectible Worlds, Man at radio-controlled sailboat regatta by ©SageSohier, “Pretzel Meteor” by ©NinaKatchadourian, “Young Heroes” by ©JoukoLehtola & “Snack Time” by ©RogerBallen
18 artists. One shared language: photography. PLAY brings together works by 18 international artists, including some of the most influential names in contemporary photography:
Martin Parr, Cristina de Middel, Susan Meiselas, Roger Ballen, Bruce Davidson, Nina Katchadourian, Pelle Cass, alongside Jouko Lehtola, Trent Parke, Sage Sohier, Christopher Herwig, Karolina Wojtas, Niccolò Rastelli, Deanna Dikeman, Joosep Kivimäe, Mathias Väärsi, and Louis-Philippe Rondeau.
The exhibition’s immersive atmosphere is enhanced by sound design composed by musician Erki Pärnoja, adding another layer to the experience.
Photography, Community, and Cultural Climate Change
Created exclusively for Oulu2026
Inspired by Oulu2026’s core theme of cultural climate change, PLAY invites audiences to imagine new ways of living, connecting, and creating together.
At a time when adult play is often digital, regulated, or discouraged, this exhibition creates space for face-to-face interaction, reflection, and human presence.
“Our intention was to create an art experience that encourages people to notice the potential for play around them and allow this way of thinking to re-emerge.”
— Jorven Viilik
Fotografiska Tallinn’s First Exhibition in Finland
A meaningful regional moment
The opening of PLAY in Oulu marks a significant milestone for Fotografiska Tallinn.
“From the very beginning, Fotografiska Tallinn has had a strong regional presence, and it feels meaningful to bring this exhibition directly to Finnish audiences,”
says Margit Aasmäe, Executive Director and Co-Founder of Fotografiska Tallinn.
This exhibition reflects Fotografiska’s broader regional vision, including new initiatives such as annual Emerging Artists exhibitions, strengthening creative collaboration across the Nordic and Baltic regions.
Exhibition Details
Everything you need to plan your visit
Exhibition: PLAY
Location: Pekuri Shopping Quarter, Oulu, Finland
Dates: 14 January – 31 December 2026
Curator: Jorven Viilik
Sound Design: Erki Pärnoja
After Oulu’s Capital of Culture year, PLAY will travel to Fotografiska Tallinn.
Further details are available via Fotografiska and Oulu2026 official websites.
Why You Shouldn’t Miss PLAY in Oulu
Whether you love photography, seek creative inspiration, or are planning a visit to Oulu, PLAY is an exhibition designed for everyone — curious minds, visual storytellers, and those looking for meaningful cultural experiences.
This is photography that feels human, playful, and deeply connected to the present moment.
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Stay curious. Stay playful. Keep creating.
