Research group

Contemporary art

In our projects, we combine art and research, technological innovation and social responsibility.

We build platforms for experimental creativity and inclusive working methods within our projects. Throughout its history, art has played an important role as a developer of new ways to view the world around us and we want to continue that tradition in our work.  

Contemporary art provides a great platform for co-creativity, interdisciplinary work and new ways of publishing such as exhibitions and workshops. Art has a strong potential to start conversations with new audiences.

Public art

We are actively developing public art pedagogy and practice and its expanding field. The role of art as part of architecture and place making creates well-being for communities and added value for the environment. Art creates interesting conversations and positive images.

The ecological turn

The ongoing ecological turn is creating new practices in the cultural sector, too. Our research group has been involved in a number of initiatives to explore and create new ways of working. We can only achieve sustainable results through broad collaboration.

Digitalisation in art

The rapid development of digital tools and artificial intelligence is also challenging the art world. In our projects, we increasingly focus on the opportunities created by digitalisation as part of artistic work and multi-professional collaboration. An artistic perspective on new technologies can also help to develop user experiences and accessibility of new applications.

tutkimusryhmän vetäjä Eero Merimaa

Our experts

We have a broad-based understanding of the role of art in society. Our experience in arts practice, artistic research and project expertise enables us to engage in in-depth RDI activities. We work in multi-professional collaboration with experts from the Turku University of Applied Sciences.

  • Taina Erävaara

    Head of Education and Research
    +358 50 598 5283
    taina.eravaara@turkuamk.fi
  • Suvi Lehtinen

    Producer and Curator of Contemporary Art
    +358 40 355 0289
    suvi.lehtinen@turkuamk.fi
  • Ismo Luukkonen

    Principal Lecturer, Degree Programme Leader
    +358 50 598 5285
    ismo.luukkonen@turkuamk.fi
  • Henna-Riikka Halonen

    Senior Lecturer
    +358 40 355 0177
    henna.halonen@turkuamk.fi
  • Eero Merimaa

    Senior Lecturer, Research Group Leader
    +358 50 598 5281
    eero.merimaa@turkuamk.fi
A work of art on the roof of EduCity

Educations related to our action

kuvanveiston tarpeistoa

The Turku University of Applied Sciences Project Office offers support and guidance throughout the life cycle of an RDI project. Our project experts have years of experience and strong expertise in national and international funding programmes. We have more than 200 projects running every year, and our RDI activities have received more than €10 million in external funding.