The year 2026 marks 80 years since sculptor Eva Ryynänen and her husband Paavo Ryynänen moved to the landscapes of Paavo’s childhood — and 50 years since the Paateri Artists’ House opened to the public. Over the decades, Paateri has grown into one of Lieksa’s best-known and most beloved tourist destinations, combining art, nature, and a unique life story.
The highlight of the anniversary year will be celebrated June 13–15, 2026, when Eva and Paavo’s Day will be celebrated throughout the weekend. The program will feature inspiring talks, music, guided tours, and activities for the whole family, including the little ones. The festivities will culminate on June 15, when admission to the artist’s home will be free in honor of Eva Ryynänen’s birthday.
Paateri is not just an artist’s home, but a complex that includes a studio, a church, and a unique cultural environment that has evolved over the decades. This anniversary year offers a wonderful opportunity to explore this significant site and experience its story in a new way.
Check out the detailed program for Eva and Paavo’s Day on the event’s website.
