A monumental raven sculpture is taking shape next to the main railway line in Vantaa's Tikkurila district. The 12-meter tall artwork with a 30-meter wingspan has sparked mixed reactions from passersby as it nears completion. Local residents and visitors are sharing their thoughts about the imposing new addition to the urban landscape.
The artwork, created by artist couple Teija and Pekka Isorättyä, occupies a prominent position at Carl Albert Edelfelt Square. Its official unveiling ceremony is scheduled for December 9. The sculpture features a unique moving eye made from an old globe that displays city lights and occasionally blinks using an electric motor.
Local resident Jouko Heinonen appreciates the artwork's impact on the area. He lives near the tram construction site and welcomes the completion of a project amid multiple ongoing developments. Heinonen notes that while railway passengers can clearly identify the raven shape, those approaching from the city center might not immediately recognize the subject.
The sculpture represents Finland's ongoing commitment to integrating public art into urban spaces. Many Finnish cities have embraced large-scale artworks to enhance public areas and stimulate community engagement. This project continues Vantaa's tradition of incorporating nature-inspired themes into its urban design, reflecting the country's deep connection to its natural environment.
Kuopio resident Kaisa Uusikylä, who passes the sculpture during visits to Tikkurila, describes it as impressive. She observes that while only a brick base was visible earlier, the bird-like form has become clearly distinguishable as construction progresses.
Nearby resident Sanna Korjus has adjusted her Sunday shopping route to monitor the sculpture's development. She expresses curiosity about the final appearance and wonders whether additional lighting elements will be incorporated. Korjus admits the artwork has grown on her, finding it more appealing than her initial expectations.
Not all feedback has been uniformly positive. Teemu Kupiainen from Vantaa's Koivuhaka district questions why the sculpture faces the railway rather than the city center. He suggests alternative subjects might have been more suitable for the location.
Longtime residents Aira and Reijo Määttä offer measured approval. Aira Määttä comments that while the artwork has its qualities, she has seen worse public art installations. She believes the strong, sturdy raven complements the adjacent Dixi shopping center well, noting both share a sense of structural strength.
The raven sculpture joins other notable public artworks in the Helsinki metropolitan area, contributing to the region's growing reputation for innovative urban design. Such projects typically aim to create conversation pieces that engage communities while enhancing the visual appeal of public spaces. The mixed public reaction demonstrates how contemporary art continues to provoke discussion about aesthetics and function in urban environments.
Public art installations in Nordic countries often serve multiple purposes beyond decoration. They can increase property values, attract tourism, and foster local identity. The substantial investment in this project indicates Vantaa's commitment to cultural development alongside urban growth. As Tikkurila continues its transformation, this raven sculpture will likely become a defining landmark for the evolving district.