EMMA-Saastamoinen Curatorial Fellowship Programme offers curators the opportunity to delve into research related to one of Finland’s most significant art collections, become acquainted with professional practices at EMMA as part of the exhibition and collection teams, and build networks within the Finnish art scene.

During the programme, each fellow produces a research-based article that reflects their engagement with Saastamoinen Foundation Art Collection. At the end of the fellowship period, articles will be published on EMMA’s online platform, EMMA Zone, and later included in a compiled publication featuring all fellowship participants. EMMA Zone offers a space for reflection, curiosity, and discovery through thematic zones featuring articles, artist videos, and behind-the-scenes stories. Fellows are also encouraged to explore innovative collection-based curatorial approaches to support the renewal of the Saastamoinen Foundation Collection Exhibition.

• A six-month paid working period at EMMA – Espoo Museum of Modern Art: salary €3534.00/month (gross), in accordance with the museum’s pay scale.

• The chance to work with EMMA’s exhibitions and collections teams in a professional museum environment.

• An opportunity to focus on curatorial research into one of Finland’s most prominent collections of contemporary and modern art.

• The opportunity to publish your research article on EMMA Zone, EMMA’s online platform, with the work later included in a compiled publication showcasing the research of all fellows.

• A platform to develop curatorial expertise as part of EMMA’s curatorial team, contributing to the research and planning for the renewal of the Saastamoinen Foundation Art Collection exhibition.

• A workspace at EMMA’s office, 30 minutes from the centre of Helsinki.

• Coverage of one-time travel expenses to and from Finland and, if necessary, costs related to a residence permit.

• Necessary work equipment, including a phone and a laptop.

• A focus on curating and researching contemporary art, with an interest in art collections.

• Relevant education and/or practical experience in curating and research.

• The production of a research article based on the Saastamoinen Foundation Art Collection at the end of the working period. 

• Excellent oral and written English language skills.

• The ability to work independently on research as well as collaboratively with a variety of individuals.

• Please note that this programme is only open to international applicants; Finnish citizens are not eligible.

• The curator is responsible for securing and paying for their own accommodation. EMMA can assist with the search.

• A curator from outside the EU will need to apply for a residence permit in Finland. EMMA can assist with the application process, but the curator is responsible for submitting the application.

Applications to the second edition of the EMMA-Saastamoinen Curatorial Fellowship Programme (2026–2027) were accepted until Thursday 30 October, 2025.

Interview selections will be made during 8 December 2025 – 6 January 2026. Selected applicants will be contacted individually).

Online interviews with selected applicants will be held between 7 January 2026 and 20 February 2026.

The final selection will be made by 28 February 2026.

Salary

The selected curator will sign an employment contract with EMMA. Salary is paid according to EMMA’s pay scale, €3534.00/month (gross). The curator should familiarise themselves with the tax regulations of Finland and their home country. Information on Finnish tax practices can be found here, and on social security contributions here. 

Travel expenses

EMMA will cover the economy-class travel expenses for the selected curator at the start and end of the employment. Travel will be arranged by EMMA in collaboration with the curator.

Accommodation

EMMA does not provide accommodation but can assist in the search. Information on local housing prices is available here. 

Residence permit  

If the selected curator is from outside the EU, they will likely need a residence permit. EMMA will cover the costs of the permit for the selected individual. Information on Finnish residence permit procedures can be found here. EMMA can assist with the application process, but the curator must submit the application. The residence permit (or passport for EU citizens) will be checked at the start of the employment.

Useful links on working in Finland:
Work in Finland – Suomi.fi
Work and Enterprise (infofinland.fi)
As a foreign employee in Finland – Tyosuojelu.fi – Occupational Safety and Health Administration 

If you have further questions about the programme or the application process after reading the information provided, please contact us exclusively at rekry@emmamuseum.fi.

To help us respond efficiently, we kindly ask that all inquiries be sent only to this address. Messages sent elsewhere may not reach the team handling applications.