First public demolition art project opens in North Karelia

A condemned apartment building in Lieksa has been transformed into a public art space, with over 40 artists contributing works to its walls.

The Metka art and culture association secured access to the Aholantie building and opened it to anyone interested in creating demolition art, a practice that has been active in Finland for a decade but is new to North Karelia.

Project coordinator Arja Korhonen said the focus is on the joy of creation rather than skill or formal training. “The main thing is that people have fun,” she said.

The building, slated for demolition due to low occupancy and high renovation costs, has already hosted events, including a band performance in May. Visitors are welcome to observe or pick up a paintbrush, with some producing large-scale works. Professional artists, such as Lahti-based Eemeli Ronkonen, have also contributed murals.

The site remains open to the public at least through Tuesday, with a small entry fee supporting Metka’s operations, including renovations at the Mätäsvaara mine theatre.