For art to be accessible to more people, you must dare to do things differently.
We are building a cultural route of delightful experiences. The focus of the project is Art Centre Culture Bank. We bring high-quality exhibitions and events to Culture Bank.
We enrich the cultural offering in the region and dare to question the established art concepts. We are not afraid to display things that may be upsetting, things you may not have wanted to see until now!
We propose the magnificent facilities of the Culture Bank, the former Oulu branch building of the Bank of Finland, for organising art exhibitions, dance, theatre, music, and various events.
MAKING ROOM FOR CULTURE
The Bank of Finland’s former Oulu Regional Branch Office stands in the centre of Oulu on the southern side of Franzén Park, in the monumental old centre. The building worked for money from 1973 until 2019, closed to the public. Now the heavy doors are open, and the building has gained a new life as a home to culture and art.
Architect Aarne Ehojoki designed the bank building. Born in Haapavesi in 1913, Ehojoki drew several important public buildings during his long career. The historical bank building is an experience in itself. The stone construction is sturdy, and the form is clear. Granite floors shine inside the solid walls; brass glows on doors and wall panels. Armoured glass and iron grills protect the windows.
The refurbishment of the bank building, commissioned in 1973, is forthcoming. The house will be completely renovated into a modern and accessible cultural space. Functional spaces are constructed on the street level and underground for culture and encounters. The past will not be hidden; it is allowed to show. The thick walls of the vaults now protect artworks, and the imposing bank is converted into an event space that private individuals and corporate clients can rent. Oulu will be the European Capital of Culture in 2026, and in that year, Art Centre Culture Bank will launch its exhibition and event activities on a large scale. The new owners are committed to maintaining the building and nurturing its story. The aim is to open a new cultural space for Oulu, the European Capital of Culture, in 2026.
