Turku offers former Russian consulate hall for cultural events and workshops

The city of Turku is making vacant spaces available to cultural organizations for a limited period. Among the newly available venues is the former event hall of the Russian consulate located at Vartiovuorenkatu 2. According to the city, the space is suitable for small events, performances, and workshops. The hall, which spans 87 square meters, features large windows that invite an abundance of natural light.

Turku has released images of the former consulate’s premises on its website. This initiative marks the third time the city has offered unused spaces to cultural actors. Other spaces available for application include an old tram hall at Amiraalistonkatu, a hall at the demolished Runosmäki site, a former youth center in Pansion, a workspace at Varissuo Library, and the Turku Concert Hall.

Starting this autumn, this model for lending venues will become a core part of Turku’s cultural services. Cultural coordinator Arttu Eteläpelto stated that this approach allows the city to continue providing unique and surprising urban culture while supporting the capabilities of artists and cultural organizations. The initiative has received praise from both cultural practitioners and local residents.

The application process for these spaces opens today and will remain open until January 20. In return for using the spaces, organizations are required to provide open cultural programming for the public. Depending on the applicant, these venues can be utilized for periods ranging from one to six months. In July 2023, Finland revoked the operational permit of the Russian consulate in retaliation for Russia’s earlier announcement regarding the closure of Finland’s consulate in St. Petersburg, ultimately leading to the city of Turku acquiring the consulate’s building. Plans for a daycare center have been considered for the site.