Changing society shapes the work of visual artists – new project boosts appreciation of the sector and opportunities for better livelihood

The visual arts sector needs sustainable solutions, new knowledge and models for education that meet society's needs. The KUVATA project will create equal opportunities for visual artists in today's evolving world through knowledge and education. The main project partner is Tampere University of Applied Sciences (TAMK).

“Our aim is to increase the value of visual artists' work and their chances of earning a better living by reforming the labour market. Digitalisation, artificial intelligence, and the use of virtual performance spaces create new opportunities for marketing and distributing artworks. Additionally, they create new ways for artists to earn money," says Project Manager Fanny Niemi-Junkola.

Project provides training and new approaches for visual artists from many angles

The project will produce targeted training for visual artists, including webinars and learning materials. The University of Lapland's Faculty of Art and Design will yield training in areas such as sustainability, responsibility, and anti-racism in the visual arts. Associate Professor Maria Huhmarniemi describes the project as inspiring:

The grant writers of the project have a background in the arts and a good understanding of the specific skills needed in the visual arts. The training package will help visual artists in their work in a changing society. It is great to open a cooperation with Tampere University of Applied Sciences and Globe Art Point.

Maria Huhmarniemi, University of Lapland

Globe Art Point will supply educational content on topics such as equality, diversity, and ethics in the field of art, not forgetting copyright issues. Managing Director Jaana Simula emphasises the topicality of the project:

“New tools and new thinking – that's what we need right now in a world that is changing at a fast pace. We offer participants a safe environment to explore the future and embrace new ways of working. The cooperation with Tampere University of Applied Sciences and the University of Lapland has opened the opportunity for Globe Art Point to work in an ESF+ funded project. For us this is a great place to learn.”
 

The Häme ELY Centre has given European Union co-funding to the project "Expanded Field of Visual Artists´ Income and Work" under the ESF+ programme. The project collaborates with the Creative Net Project coordinated by the Arts Promotion Centre Finland. It supports ESF+ projects funded under the theme of Creative and Cultural Innovation.

Please visit KUVATA project website for more information.

Additional information:
Fanny Niemi-Junkola
Project Manager
Tampere University of Applied Sciences
fanny.niemi-junkola [at] tuni.fi (fanny[dot]niemi-junkola[at]tuni[dot]fi), +358 50 356 2803