VArt is an international art center and artist residency in Värtsilä, North Karelia, Finland.
VArt brings together an artist residency, production facilities, educational initiatives and a growing international community. Located in the rural landscape of North Karelia, close to forests, lakes and the Finnish–Russian border, VArt offers artists time, space and a supportive environment for focused work, research, experimentation and material-based artistic practice.
The story of VArt began in the aftermath of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, when Finnish textile artist and cultural practitioner Karoliina Arvilommi opened an artist residency in Värtsilä to support Ukrainian artists who had been forced to leave their homes and artistic communities. What began as an act of solidarity became part of a wider network of support for displaced artists.
Through the Ukraine Solidarity Residencies Programme, coordinated by HIAP – Helsinki International Artist Programme, Kateryna and Serhii Shaulis arrived in Värtsilä. Serhii became one of the first Ukrainian artists in residence, and over time the family developed a deep connection to the place, its people and its creative community.
Today, VArt continues to build on the values from which it emerged: solidarity, cooperation, creative freedom and the belief that meaningful cultural initiatives grow through communities working together.
More than an artist residency.
Art, residency and production in one place
VArt combines an artist residency with production facilities and a broader cultural programme, allowing artists not only to develop ideas but also to realise them.
Rooted in North Karelia
The forests, lakes and rural landscapes surrounding Värtsilä are an important part of the experience, offering an environment for concentration, reflection and experimentation.
Artist-run and artist-led
VArt is developed by artists and cultural practitioners who understand the realities of creative work and the importance of long-term support.
A community built through collaboration
VArt has grown through cooperation between artists, local residents, cultural organisations and international partners.
Values that shape VArt.
Creative Freedom
We support independent artistic practice and the freedom to explore, experiment and take risks.
Community and Solidarity
VArt was born from acts of solidarity and mutual support. We value collaboration, generosity and shared care.
International Dialogue
We believe that art creates meaningful connections across cultures, languages and borders.
Making and Material Knowledge
We value craftsmanship, making and hands-on experience with materials, tools and processes.
Nature and Place
The forests, lakes and landscapes of North Karelia are an important part of our environment and identity.
Openness and Learning
We see VArt as a place of continuous learning, curiosity and exchange of skills.
A quiet place for focused work, research and material-based practice.
VArt Residency welcomes sculptors, ceramic artists, contemporary visual artists and artists working with material-based practices.
Who can apply
The residency is open to artists whose practice requires time, concentration, research, experimentation or engagement with materials and place.
Season
VArt Residency is open from April to November. The house is closed during the winter season.
Funding
VArt does not provide grants or travel funding. Artists are encouraged to apply for external support.
Visa support
Applicants must have legal permission to stay in Finland or the EU. VArt does not provide visa support.
Applications are accepted by email.
Artists interested in staying at VArt are invited to contact us with a short biography, portfolio link, project description and preferred residency dates.
More detailed application information and future open calls will be published here.
Apply by emailSpace to stay, work and connect.
VArt offers accommodation, a quiet working environment and access to basic production possibilities for artistic research, small-scale material work, project development and collaboration.
More information about rooms, workspaces, equipment and facilities will be added soon.
A residency shaped by people, place and shared support.
VArt is not only a residency house, but also a growing community of artists, neighbours, friends, cultural workers and local supporters.
The residency has developed through cooperation, hospitality and shared care. We are grateful to the local community of Värtsilä and Tohmajärvi, as well as to all friends and collaborators who help make VArt possible.
Stories, press and updates.
News, press materials, open calls and updates from VArt will be published here.
Press links and recent articles will be added soon.
The organisational base of VArt.
Muurahaisenpolku ry is a non-profit cultural association founded in 2018. It provides the legal and organisational framework for VArt and supports artistic, educational and cultural initiatives in North Karelia.
Get in touch.
For residency inquiries, cooperation or visits, please contact us.
Email: info@vart.fi
Location: Värtsilä, Tohmajärvi, North Karelia, Finland
Organisation: Muurahaisenpolku ry
Contact us