During the Wanha Woima Days festival, sand artist Matsu Yoshi will create a large-scale sand sculpture inspired by the theme “The Power of Opposites – Created by Nature, Shaped by Humans.”
A unique art project will take place in Oulainen in summer 2026 3-5 July as internationally acclaimed Japanese sand artist Matsu Yoshi arrives in the city as a resident artist. During the Wanha Woima Days festival, Yoshi will create a large-scale sand sculpture inspired by the theme “The Power of Opposites – Created by Nature, Shaped by Humans.”
Visitors will be able to follow the sculpture’s construction throughout the festival weekend as the artwork gradually takes shape before their eyes. Once completed, the sculpture will remain on display throughout the summer at the Wanha Woima Heritage Centre area.
From Natural Pathways to Railways
The sculpture is inspired by the 140th anniversary of the Ostrobothnian Railway and explores the dialogue between nature and humankind.
Before roads and railways existed, people travelled along rivers, ridges, footpaths and other routes formed by nature. Over time, humans began creating new connections, culminating in the construction of railways that enabled regional development, trade, encounters and mobility.
In the artwork, organic natural forms, flowing water and landscape routes gradually transform into railway tracks, trains and human-made structures. Rather than conflicting with one another, these opposites come together to tell a shared story of progress, movement and connection.
International Artist Inspired by Finland
Matsu Yoshi is a renowned Japanese sand artist who participates annually in major sand sculpture events across Asia, the United States and Europe. In Japan, he works as an art school teacher and combines visual arts expertise, nature-inspired forms and strong visual storytelling in his work.
Yoshi has a particular interest in Finland, its nature and its people. His visit to Oulainen will mark his fourth trip to Finland. During this summer’s tour, he will also work at the Sandcastle of Lappeenranta, Botania in Joensuu and the Enonkoski Sand Sculpture Competition.
Local Artists Joining the Project
In Oulainen, Yoshi will work alongside local artists Anna Koivukangas and Jonna Taikatie, who have achieved international success, including recognition at the International Snow Sculpture Competition in Sapporo, Japan.
The project offers a valuable opportunity for artistic exchange, international collaboration and learning a new art form.
“Sand sculpting is, as far as we know, being introduced in Oulainen for the first time, making this an entirely new creative venture for us. It is exciting to learn from a world-class international professional while bringing a new form of environmental art to local residents and festival visitors,” says Anna Koivukangas from Oulainen Cultural Services.
Residency Collaboration and European Capital of Culture Programme
The residency is organised through a collaboration between the Sykli Residency Programme of Oulainen Cultural Services, Wanha Woima and Törmänhovi.
The sand sculpture project is part of the Manual Skills Workshops initiative within the Wanha Woima programme, which forms part of the official programme of Oulu2026 European Capital of Culture.
The National Wanha Woima Days is one of the flagship events of the Oulu2026 year within the Best Festivals in Europe programme line. The initiative aims to raise awareness of the unique events of Northern Finland and the Oulu region among international audiences.
The broader programme entity, The Power of Tradition, has received funding from the Oulu Cultural Foundation for the years 2024–2027.
The Manual Skills Workshops project explores traditional crafts, working methods, machinery, vehicles and food heritage. Workshops are led by both Finnish and international experts who will also showcase their skills through live demonstrations during Wanha Woima Days.
The sand sculpture serves as one of the project’s most visible international pilot initiatives while also building cultural bridges between Finland and Japan.
Witness the Creation of Art
Visitors to Wanha Woima Days can follow the creation of the sculpture throughout the event and observe how several tonnes of sand are transformed step by step into an artwork that connects nature, history and the future.
Once completed, the sculpture will remain on display at the Heritage Centre throughout the summer, symbolising the shared journey of nature and humanity—from the curves of the river to the rails of the Ostrobothnian Railway.
Further Information
Anna Koivukangas
Oulainen Cultural Services
Tel. +358 44 479 3268
anna.koivukangas@oulainen.fi
