Discussions about the possible merger of visual artists' organizations have sparked much debate this fall. The dialogue will continue after the Christmas break with open morning coffee meetings and a discussion event with funders, among other things.

The board of the Artists' Association of Finland calls for constructive, respectful dialogue and the verification of accurate information in discussions concerning the merger.

Overview

Discussions about the possible merger of visual artists' organizations have sparked a lot of debate this fall. It is great that people are interested in the future of visual artists' organizations. It shows that the organizations are important to their members.

No decision on merger has been made, and yet it is not time to do so. This year, a study was conducted to explore the possibility of merger, and the results showed that a merger would be feasible and would bring synergy benefits.

It has been important for the board of the Artists' Association of Finland to have an open discussion: even though we do not yet know what the alternative to the current situation would be, we have wanted to hear the views of the visual arts community at large, for example by organizing open events. More than a hundred people participated in the discussion event held in October, and the associations have also consulted their members through surveys and their own meetings.

The discussions have revealed both enthusiasm and concerns. Concerns have included the demands of the integration process in terms of finances, facilities, and human resources, preserving the unique character of the associations, and securing exhibition opportunities. Opportunities identified include the strengthening of the voice of visual arts in society, improved legal services, and cost sharing.

Next year, work will begin on developing a concrete model as an alternative to the current situation. This work will be carried out in collaboration with members, financiers, and other stakeholders. The final decision on whether or not to merge will be made by each organization itself, after a careful preparatory phase. The decision-making power in the organizations lies with the visual artists.

The discussion has been intense in some quarters. Criticism and differing opinions are part of organizational democracy, but the board of the Artists' Association of Finland does not accept inappropriate behavior or spreading of false information.

We call for respectful dialogue and a safe environment for discussion. 

The Artists' Association of Finland encourages artists to engage in direct, open dialogue with those responsible. Contact details can be found at the end of this message. Unfortunately, due to time constraints and reasons related to transparency of information, the staff and board of the Artists' Association are unable to participate in all discussions on social media. Up-to-date information on this matter is available in an accessible and centralized manner through the Artists' Association's communication channels.

If you encounter information that you are unsure about, you can contact the staff or board members of the Artists' Association of Finland. The association's events comply with the principles of a safe meeting space (link).
 

Board of the Artists’ Association of Finland

Teemu Mäki (teemu.maki@artists.fi)

Siiri Haarla, Finnish Painters’ Union (siiri.haarla@painters.fi)

Minka Heino, Artists’ Association MUU ry (board@muu.fi)

Iina Heiskanen, The Association of Finnish Print Makers (iina.heiskanen@taidegraafikot.fi)

Katri Krohn Lassila, The Association of Photographic Artists (pj@hippolyte.fi)

Ville Mäkikoskela, The Association of Finnish Sculptors (ville.makikoskela@sculptors.fi)

Jenni Turunen, Union of Finnish Art Associations (jenni.turunen@skjl.fi)


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Next steps

The discussion will continue after the Christmas break:

  • Welcome to open morning coffees (remotely, link to Zoom): January 29, March 12, April 23, and May 28 from 9 - 10 a.m. Morning coffee provides a common discussion platform for everyone interested. We will open a feedback box where participants can anonymously submit topics they would like to see discussed at future meetings (link to feedback box, Webropol survey).
     
  • Open remote event: Possible merger of visual arts organizations: funding prospects and case studies January 21, 2026, 9–11 a.m. The event will feature the views of public and foundation funders on the future of visual arts organizations and the merger discussion, as well as examples of other organizations' merger processes. More information will be published on the association's channels soon.
     
  • Planning the organizational model: In 2026, work will begin on planning a concrete organizational model. The Artists' Association has applied for funding for this work so that an alternative to the current situation can be carefully constructed. The goal behind the reform of the organizational structure is to secure and strengthen services for visual artists, advocacy for the field, and funding for activities.
     
  • Share your thoughts on the possible merger in the feedback box (link to Webropol survey). Your opinion is valuable!