Suomenlinna is a cluster of islands situated off the coast of Helsinki, the capital of Finland. It was inscribed on the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Heritage List in 1991. The islands' natural landscapes and well-preserved historical relics have enhanced Suomenlinna's status as a cultural destination in Europe. It offers a rich resource of inspiration for creative activities with its stunning coastal scenery and rich historical and cultural ambience. The Art Promotion Office (APO) is organising the "Residence Programme and Work Presentation@Suomenlinna" in collaboration with the HIAP – Helsinki International Artist Programme, an art organisation in Suomenlinna. Founded in 1998, the HIAP has been organising art exhibitions and cultural events in the local community. It invites and supports artists from all over the world to take part in the residence programme on the islands, bringing together global and local creativity and enabling artistic dialogue among multiple perspectives.

To offer Hong Kong artists and cross-disciplinary talents the chance to engage in creative activities, conduct artistic exchanges in a locality very different from their own, bring together unique ideas, and let viewers around the world see the appeal of Hong Kong art, the APO and the HIAP jointly called for residence proposals for the programme from 5 August to 18 September 2022.

Through the joint adjudication panel of Hong Kong and Helsinki, the proposal of Margaret Chu was selected out of a total of 95 proposals received. She will undertake the residence programme and work presentation at Suomenlinna in 2023. We will share her residence experience during the period. Please stay tuned for updates.