Oulu International Art Festival
4.10.2025, 12:00 - 21:00
(Cultural Centre Valve, Hallituskatu 7)
On October 4th we’re bringing people together at Valve for a day full of music, dance, art, and stories from Oulu’s international community. Come by, try a workshop, listen, share, and celebrate with us — it’s all about enjoying creativity and being together.
On October 4th, Valve will turn into a place where cultures meet, mix, and create something new together. From live music and dance, to storytelling, and an art fair, the festival will bring out the voices and talents of international and local artists who make Oulu such a diverse city. You’ll get to try workshops, meet people, and see how many different ways creativity can connect us — no matter where we come from.
We want this day to feel welcoming, like walking into a friend’s living room where there’s always music playing, people laughing, and something interesting happening in every corner. Some will come to perform, others to share their crafts, and many just to enjoy being part of it. You don’t need to know anyone or have any special skills — just bring yourself, your curiosity, and maybe a friend or two. Together we’ll make this first International Art Festival in Oulu a day to remember.
Program Release
Full Programme
Festival Program – Oulu International Art Festival 2025
4 October 2025 | Valve, Hallituskatu 7, Oulu
12:00 – 12:10
Opening Moments
A short welcome to set the festival spirit.
12:15 – 12:45
Music Performance
Start the day with inspiring words and a performance.
12:45 – 13:45
Panel Discussion: Opportunities for International Artists in Oulu
Artists, curators and cultural voices share insights and experiences.
14:00 – 14:30
Lunch Break
Time to relax, recharge and network.
14:30 – 17:00
Creative Workshops – Part I
Hands-on sessions led by international facilitators.
Vera Nekrasova - Zumba Class for parents and children (Dancehall 1, 14:30 -
15:50) Price - FREE
Shahrzad Safian -Self-portrait Workshop for adults and teens (Sanataidevintti,
15:00 - 16:30) Price - 4 euros
Arina Lykova - Leaf Print Stories for families with children (Kantti, 15:00 - 16:30)
Price - FREE
Kemal Erdem Cosar - Walk-in Networking Workshop (Conference Room, 14:30 -
16:45) Price - FREE
17:10 – 17:50
Music Performance
Enjoy live music before evening workshops.
18:00 – 19:30
Creative Workshops – Part II
Continue exploring art, ideas and collaboration.
Sana Grigoryeva - Mindful drawing workshop for adults (Sanataidevintti, 18:00 -
19:30) Price - 5 euros
Marian Tumanyan - Armenian traditional dance workshop, age 13+ (Dancehall 2, 18:00 - 19:30) Price - FREE
Filmy Jiang - Calligraphy workshop for all ages. (Conference room, 18:00 - 19:00). Price - 5 eur.
19:45 – 21:00
Psychodrama participatory theatre «Empathy and Inequality» at Café Paljetti
An interactive learning experience that uses roleplay to examine the social dynamics of discrimination.
All Day in Aula (Lobby) 12:00 - 21:00
Art Fair – Meet artists and crafters, explore unique creations, and discover authentic works for sale.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of it!