The Association of Finnish Sculptors’ Pro Sculptura Medal for 2025 has been awarded to sculptor Tiina Veräjänkorva (TaM, KM) in recognition of her significant work on behalf of the association and sculpture.

Tiina Veräjänkorva (b. 1959) served as the association’s executive director from 2012 to 2024. During these years, the association carried out major projects, promoted the status of public art, and implemented reforms to improve the status of artists. These years saw many new initiatives and developments, both in the association’s internal operations and in its wider impact.

To promote the use of public art and the percentage principle, a public art committee was established for the Association on Veräjänkorva’s initiative, and she served as the competition representative of the Finnish Artists’ Association from 2012 to 2016. In addition, she was involved in creating new operating models and emphasised the potential of public art as an income source for artists.

Veräjänkorva implemented major projects and international cooperation projects, such as Sculpture Expanded – A Mobile Public Art Laboratory. She initiated new services, such as Isot veistokset (Large Sculptures) – a sculpture rental and purchase service.

Veräjänkorva strengthened the association’s funding and position as a forerunner. As a result of her work, Galleria Sculptor was among the first to offer rent-free exhibitions and artist fees.

“Tiina’s term as executive director has seen many new initiatives, including the development of the association’s activities both internally and in terms of its social impact, as well as strengthening the status of public art. There have also been challenging times during these years. The association would like to express its special thanks to Veräjänkorva for successfully steering the association through the exceptional circumstances caused by the Covid pandemic,” says Ville Mäkikoskela, chair of the Association of Finnish Sculptors.

Tiina Veräjänkorva holds a Master of Arts degree in 1993 from the Department of Ceramics and Glass Art at the University of Art and Design Helsinki. Prior to that, she studied education and art history at the University of Helsinki. In 2021, she graduated as a public art expert from a specialisation program coordinated by the University of the Arts. Her artistic work spans the fields of sculpture, installations, and environmental art. Throughout her career, Veräjänkorva has been an active influencer in the field, holding numerous positions of trust and expert roles, as well as teaching at the University of Art and Design Helsinki and working as a project manager in continuing education for artists at Aalto University’s Aalto PRO.

The Pro Sculptura medal is awarded for special achievements in promoting Finnish sculpture. Designed by Heikki Varja and Kauko Räsänen, the Pro Sculptura medal has been awarded since 1960.