Myllärintalo cellar and summer exhibitions 2026

The City of Turku organises an annual programme for cultural interim spaces and pop-up art, aiming to bring free art and surprising cultural experiences across the city. The selected participants for 2026 will offer new artistic experiences and working opportunities, ranging from exhibitions and workshops to performances and participatory activities.

Cultural interim space operators 2026

A total of 21 operators or working groups were selected. The historic cellar of Myllärintalo is one of the selected locations, hosting artistic activities during the summer. The protected cellar, dating back to the 19th century, is a significant part of Turku’s industrial and settlement history, and its unique atmosphere provides a distinctive setting for art and cultural activities.

The following artists will work in the Myllärintalo cellar in summer 2026:

• Milja Amita Kilumanga and the Masque-a-raids working group, presenting the performance piece Masque-a-raids, along with residency work and a demo/discussion event during 1 June – 30 June 2026
• Outi Linnossuo, whose Meduusat project will bring a participatory craft exhibition, information and workshops during 1 August – 31 August 2026

The selection criteria emphasised innovation, suitability of the concepts for the spaces, improved working conditions for artists, and opportunities for public participation.

Myllärintalo summer exhibitions 2026

There will also be other art on display at Myllärintalo this year. Artists can apply for exhibitions in the café space until 6 April 2026. The exhibition periods are:

• 5 May – 7 June 2026
• 9 June – 12 July 2026
• 14 July – 16 August 2026
• 18 August – 20 September 2026

The exhibitions may explore themes such as the historic building, local history, nature and landscape, the Aura River and its impact on the Baltic Sea, or the relationship between art and nature. Artists are responsible for installing and removing their works, and openings with refreshments can be arranged in cooperation with the café.

It is possible to visit the space during the café’s pop-up opening hours before applying. For more information, please contact Mari Kallio (mari.kakkupuoti@gmail.com).

The Aura River Foundation welcomes artists and visitors to experience how culture can enliven the Aura River environment and create new encounters in the landscape.