Art Collection Kirpilä - Discover a Hidden Gem in the Heart of Helsinki

Join us for a visit to one of Helsinki’s best-kept secrets: the Kirpilä Art Collection, an intimate and inspiring art museum housed in a former private residence on Pohjoinen Hesperiankatu, in the vibrant Töölö district.

Once the elegant home of renowned rheumatologist and passionate art collector Juhani Kirpilä (1931 – 1988) and his life partner, antiques dealer Karl “Kalle” Rosenqvist, this 350 m² apartment now invites you to experience the beauty of Finnish art in a uniquely personal setting - somewhat gay, some might wish to say...

While you wander through a thoughtfully curated collection you will see over a selection from the 540 works of art, from early 20th-century classics to contemporary pieces, some of which were even acquired posthumously. On the top floor of a 1930 functionalist building you can enjoy both aesthetic delight and an intimate glimpse into the refined lifestyle of a gay upper-class couple during the late 20th century.

Juhani Kirpilä wasn’t just a collector, he was a true lover of art, famously declaring that “to me artworks are children that I love.” His collection began with a few dozen pieces inherited from his parents in 1959 and grew steadily over the years, especially his cherished works by Pekka Halonen.

As Juhani approached his 50th birthday, he wanted to ensure that his collection would live on as a museum bearing his name. After Juhani passed away peacefully in 1988, the first museum director, Ms Anneli Lindström, transformed his home into a public treasure and the museum opened in 1992.

A nice gesture to the visitors: there is no entrance fee! The museum is open for a couple of hours on two days per week, so check the opening hours.

In principle, the Kirpilä Art Collection is accessible. However, there are five steps at the main entrance. Wheelchair users can access the stairwell via the back entrance with the help of the on-site security staff.

Three gender-neutral restrooms are available for visitors, but unfortunately none is fully accessible.

There is a small museum shop at the entrance offers gifts and souvenirs.

While there's no café on-site, you're just steps away from charming cafés and wine bars in Töölö, perfect for reflecting on Juhani’s art collection over a coffee or a glass of bubbly.

Taidekoti Kirpilä

Pohjoinen Hesperiankatu 7, 6th floor, 00260 Helsinki

taidekotikirpila.fi