Each family centre in Espoo has its own unique character. Originally designed as an office space by Aarne Ervi (1910–1977), Niittyportti Family Centre was fully repurposed in recently completed renovations. The placement of artworks was guided by the architecture, the functional layout and the goal of bringing joy and happiness to the building’s users. Art can evoke powerful emotions, associations and memories, and the selected artworks were chosen thoughtfully with an emphasis on vibrant colours, engaging forms and nature themes.

The artworks were curated by experts from EMMA’s collections team, Lotta Hannuksela and Emma Lilja, in collaboration with the family centre’s personnel. EMMA already has extensive experience in curating art for public spaces such as hospitals, daycare centres and assisted care facilities. Prior to this project, EMMA curated the art display at Espoo’s first family centre completed in summer 2022. The Niittykumpu display marks the continuation of the city’s ongoing art acquisitions for Espoo’s family centres. 

The curated display features Finnish artists from the Saastamoinen Foundation Art Collection spanning from the 1970s to the present, including names such as Sami Havia, Kristian Krokfors, Tuomas Mäntynen, Sara Orava, Pekka Ryynänen, Per Stenius, Sinikka Tuominen, Anna Tuori and Hannu Väisänen. The current display will possibly be supplemented over the coming years.