The Technology Village (Teknologiakylä) in Oulu, Finland is a significant environment for technological research, innovation, and future-oriented labor. By day, it is a dynamic hub for technological and scientific development, bustling with human activity and ideas of progress. By night, it transforms into a space reclaimed by more-than-human life. This "non-place" is characterized by intriguing glass facades, parking lots, bus stops, green zones, dining areas, and a multitude of technological tools being developed. 

​

​Oulu is the European Capital of Culture for the year 2026. and TEK.village is part of the Oulu2026 cultural programme and cultural climate change.

There is a clear need to expand cultural activity beyond traditional institutions and city-center venues. The cultural programme of Oulu2026 emphasizes cultural vitality, accessibility, sustainability, and the activation of everyday environments. Teknologiakylä represents an ideal site for this ambition, and as part of the Oulu2026 cultural program, TEK.Village will help make this ambition a reality. Pushing the boundaries of art making and exhibition models, our project seeks to illuminate the unused potential of this unique environment through art, technology, and collaboration. 

​

Revitalization through Artistic Vision: Through TEK.VILLAGE we aim to temporarily transform parts of Teknologiakylä into shared cultural spaces through a unique site-specific pop-up exhibition from 11-13th September 2026. It invites artists to develop site-specific artworks in response to the area, and to reflect upon the relationships between technology, ecology, and everyday life. Project offers a fluid and organic working relationship with the artists - one that is grounded in mutual support, transparency, and genuine collaboration. In doing so we aim to challenge traditional exhibition models; to honor and emphasize the importance of time, space, play and community in the art making process; promote sustainable art practices; foster engaging methods for thematic exploration; and to foster deeper connections between art, artist, environment, and audience. This project will also show the potential of public, outdoor “non-places” as potential sites for exhibitions and art making with a focus on audience  engagement with the site, themes of technological and ecological awareness, more-than-human collaboration. By developing a transparent and care-based working model between ourselves, the artists, and community, TEK.VILLAGE will contribute to the long-term cultural health and resilience of Oulu.

​

Financial support:

We are culture Oulu 2026 and Oulu Valistustalo

Oulu 2026 - European Capital of Culture 

​​