Vanajavesi Art Triangle

The Vanajavesi Art Triangle invites you on a joyful journey where art, nature, and history come together. Along the route, you’ll experience the joyful world of naive art in Iittala, contemporary art exhibitions at Voipaala Manor, and the unique museum and studio of sculptor Emil Wikström at Visavuori. All three destinations are located near or along the shores of Lake Vanajavesi, a body of water that links the cultural heritage of Hämeenlinna, Valkeakoski, and Sääksmäki. With only short distances between them, the Art Triangle makes for a delightful day trip for art lovers—all within an 18-kilometre radius.

Naivistit Iittalassa – A Place of Joyful Naive Art in Iittala Village

Winter of Naivism
22 November 2025 – 8 March 2026

Homecoming – Naive Art Summer Exhibition 2026
18 May – 30 August 2026

Up-to-date information on exhibitions on www.naivistit.fi

Naivistit Iittalassa is Finland’s largest exhibition of naive art. Every summer, cheerful and storytelling artworks fill the historic wooden schoolhouse in Iittala. Naive art presents the world with simple shapes, bright colours, and gentle curiosity – its joyful and playful character makes every visit a pleasure. Each year, the exhibition features around 500 new works by 50 contemporary Finnish naive artists.

Nearby attractions

Just a short walk from the exhibition, the Iittala Village offers a variety of attractions: Finland’s only operating glass factory, the Iittala Glass Museum, and the Iittala Outlet, home to all Fiskars brands. You’ll also find unique ceramics, handmade knives, jewellery supplies, handicrafts, clothing, and gifts. A local restaurant serves a salad buffet, soup lunch, and sweet and savoury pastries. More information: www.iittalavillage.fi

Voipaala Art Centre – A Rich Cultural Experience in the Heart of Sääksmäki

Up-to-date information on exhibitions at Voipaala: https://voipaala.valkeakoski.fi/

Voipaala Art Centre combines a long historical legacy with high-quality contemporary art in an impressive manor setting. Its galleries host changing exhibitions throughout the year. Voipaala highlights the diversity of art forms and the dialogue between them. The exhibition programme brings together both well-known Finnish artists and emerging talents, with current themes often reflected in the content.

Nearby attractions

In summer, the baroque-style garden oasis beneath apple trees invites visitors to enjoy a picnic, while the manor café is open year-round, offering local savoury and sweet pastries and, in summer, a soup lunch. Nearby, the nature trails of Rapola Ridge lead to an ancient hillfort landscape with stunning views over Lake Vanajavesi. More information about the area: www.valkeakoski.fi

Visavuori Museum – A Journey Through an Artist’s Home and Finland’s Funniest Museum

Up-to-date information on exhibitions at Visavuori: https://visavuori.com/

Visavuori Museum is the former home and studio of sculptor Emil Wikström (1864–1942), located on the shore of Lake Vanajavesi. The nationally romantic buildings have been preserved in their original form and offer a glimpse into the golden age of Finnish art. The Kari Pavilion showcases political cartoons and sketches by Kari Suomalainen, Wikström’s grandson and one of Finland’s most famous cartoonists. The lakeside setting, pine-covered cliffs, and lush gardens form a unique and nationally significant cultural environment.

Nearby attractions

During the summer season, the museum café serves savoury and sweet treats in a charming atmosphere. The Visavuori pier is also a stop for the M/S Helena operated by Pirkkalines, offering themed cruises on Lake Vanajavesi during the summer months. www.pirkkalines.fi. More information about the area: www.valkeakoski.fi.