Seated on a blue-gray bench on Toppelundinranta beach is a human-sized figure that welcomes passers-by to sit down beside her. Espoo’s Nelli is a bronze sculpture created by Kerttu Horila to delight both residents and visitors of Espoo. The nomadic sculpture will relocate regularly, bringing joy to a new neighbourhood every year. The Espoo Youth Council will decide its next destination, and that neighbourhood will in turn “pass the baton” to the following one. The sculpture was commissioned by EMMA and will become part EMMA Collection.

Half-human, half-dog, Espoo’s Nelli is a maternally affable figure who cradles a puppy under one arm. Artist Kerttu Horila sitting next to Espoo’s Nelli. © Ari Karttunen / EMMA.  

Kerttu Horila (b. 1946) is a sculptor best known for her life-sized human figures in public spaces. She works primarily in ceramics but has also created a number of public bronzes. She has stated that her sculptures are based on careful people watching and observation of the features, gestures and expressions that lend them their uniquely human qualities. 

The sculpture was unveiled on Monday, June 6 with the artist in attendance. The gift was accepted on behalf of the people of Espoo by Mayor Jukka Mäkelä. © Ari Karttunen / EMMA.

As part of its work in the sphere of public art, EMMA displays a significant number of pieces from its collection around the city, where it can be enjoyed by all visitors and residents. Espoo’s Nelli is the museum’s gift to Espoo and its residents on the occasion of the city’s 50th anniversary. Take a selfie with Nelli and share it on social media. By adding the tags @emmamuseum and @espooesbo, you can join in congratulating Espoo in its special year!