Kiasma: Museum of Contemporary Art At Mannerheiminaukio 2, just beyond the Lasipalatsi is the new Museum of Contemporary Art: Kiasma. A somewhat unfriendly looking structure made with metalic tubular sections; it's an unusually adventurous building for the practical minded Finns. Inside the cavernous interior there are broad, wavelike curves and hallways with natural light flowing in from every conceivable angle. Entry to the ground floor is free, and there's a good café with Internet access and an excellent art bookshop . The Kiasma takes its exhibition material from a backlog of 4,000 pieces of contemporary art, along with works by visiting artists. There are no permanent displays as such, but as you look around you get the impression that it's the building itself that is the main attraction. Some rooms have no windows and are in complete darkness; others have high archways through which light pours out into the exhibition area - giving the place an almost churchlike atmosphere. There are lots of touchscreen terminals that are well positioned around the place telling you all you need to know about any of the works on display; there's also a room full of computer terminals with various CD-ROMs on art and culture including one on the Kiasma itself. Exhibitions vary from month to month - check out the museum's website for updates. [ Helsinki hotels in Helsinki] - [Site Map] - [ Secure Server ] - [ Privacy Policy ] - [ Disclaimer ]