Did you know that one of Oulu’s largest gallery spaces is located in Ylikiiminki? Housed in the restored hayloft of a 19th-century farmhouse, Atelier-Gallery Kaikkonen offers an immersive studio experience that engages all your senses. The current Summer Exhibition is already the gallery’s ninth annual exhibition.
Atelier-Gallery Kaikkonen first opened its doors to the public in the summer of 2012. Throughout the year, the atmospheric studio serves as the workplace of painter Sampo Kaikkonen, while during the summer it welcomes visitors to experience its exhibitions. This year’s exhibition is the gallery’s ninth and is part of the official programme of Oulu2026 European Capital of Culture.
The studio is located in the former hayloft of an old cowshed and forms part of an idyllic and culturally significant 19th-century farmstead in Ylikiiminki, approximately 45 kilometres from the centre of Oulu.
Sampo Kaikkonen (b. 1975) is best known for his monumental painting The Divine Horizon, completed in 2020 for Oulu Cathedral. In this summer’s exhibition, Inseparable, Kaikkonen turns away from the religious themes of his recent works and returns to earthly and mythological human figures.
The guest artist in the Aula Gallery is Esa Holopainen (b. 1958) from Muhos. Holopainen is widely known for his comic books, including The Bloodhounds of Tyrnävä and Neighbours, as well as for his extensive work as an illustrator. In this exhibition, however, he presents primarily independent artworks that showcase his exceptional draftsmanship.
Visitors can also enjoy coffee and freshly baked pastries either in the studio or in the peaceful lakeside courtyard overlooking Lake Seluskanjärvi. In addition, the charming Sally’s Vintage pop-up boutique offers a delightful selection of vintage treasures.
The Summer Exhibition is open until 2 August, Friday–Sunday from 12:00 to 17:00.
