Overview of the Foundation
Saastamoinen Foundation – a global partner to art and science. We support artists and researchers on a long-term basis and promote their networks around the world. We facilitate innovative encounters and hold a dynamic art collection. Together we strive towards a better future for next generations.
Our values – transparency, internationalisation, expertise and continuity – shape the support we offer to artists, ground-breaking scientific projects, art institutions and community projects aimed at young people.
Our Mission
Saastamoinen Foundation is a global partner to art and science.
We support artists and researchers on a long-term basis and promote their networks around the world. We facilitate innovative encounters and hold a dynamic art collection. Together we strive towards a better future for next generations.
History of the Foundation
Where does the name Saastamoinen Foundation come from?
The Foundation’s background lies in the assets of the family company Saastamoinen Ltd, the most well-known business enterprise in Kuopio in the 20th century. Founded in 1876 by Herman Saastamoinen as a small general store, it grew into an international family company during the 20th century. The operations of the diversified company, which reached the age of one hundred years, ended in 1996. Its legacy lives on in the form of the foundation established in 1968 by Herman Saastamoisen’s granddaughter Liisa Karttunen (née Saastamoinen) and her spouse Osmo P. Karttunen.
ART+
Saastamoinen Foundation operates in the areas of cultural, economic, environmental and social sustainability. In its activities, the Foundation primarily promotes cultural sustainability.
In the work of Saastamoinen Foundation, the approach to cultural sustainability is called ART+.