The Cheongju International Craft Biennale has selected Finland to be the theme country for this year’s exhibition, exhibition, the Finnish Embassy announced.

Hosted by Cheongju City, the Cheongju International Craft Biennale is one of the largest events in the field of contemporary craft.

The biennale, started in 1999, has grown steadily to become an internationally well-known and diverse event. In 2009, 290,000 visitors experienced firsthand the 3,000 artists from 53 countries exhibiting their works.

Earlier invited theme countries have been Canada in 2009 and Italy in 2007.

The embassy said that there will be a large exhibition of Finnish craft, applied art, design and culture. It includes a display of experimental craft and contemporary design, educational events, folk music and dance performances. Works from 200 Finnish artists and designers will be exhibited. Furthermore, “Finland Day” will be held on Oct. 1. The exhibition is coordinated by the Finnish Association of Designers, which celebrates its 100th anniversary this year. 

(yoav@heraldcorp.com)

Part of the Finnish exhibition is reserved for open calls. There is also a section comprising of invited designers’ and craft artists’ works.

The biennale will run from Sept. 21-Oct. 30 in the city of Cheongju.

For more information about Finland’s participation, visit the embassy’s site at www.finland.or.kr.

Information regarding the biennale can be accessed at www.cheongjubiennale.or.kr.