Looking to promote Finnish cultural heritage, the Finnish Parliament enacted the National Gallery Act, giving birth to Kansallisgalleria, the national museum of visual arts. Under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Education and Culture, Kansallisgalleria is an independent public foundation composed of three museums: the Ateneum Art Museum, the Museum of Contemporary Art Kiasma, and the Sinebrychoff Art Museum.
The National Gallery Act defines Kansallisgalleria’s mission as the maintenance and expansion of the national collection, exhibition, and other art museum activities, as well as participation in museum field development as an expert. Kansallisgalleria has legal capacity and, under its activities for the benefit of the stated mission, can enter into commitments, acquire property, and conduct business.
The Act prohibits Kansallisgalleria from seeking commercial gain through its collection and exhibition program. The legislation provides for the museum to receive donations and gifts, as well as determining the ownership of such items. Furthermore, the Ministry of Education and Culture and Kansallisgalleria will agree each year on the museum’s central qualitative and quantitative goals, as well as monitoring and assessment procedures for their fulfilment. The Act also mandates that Kansallisgalleria provide the Ministry with the necessary information about its operations.
The National Gallery Act underscores Finland’s commitment to the promotion and preservation of cultural heritage. Kansallisgalleria’s role in national visual arts collection and preservation is both prominent and crucial, as it serves as an educational and research centre, promoting a deeper awareness and appreciation of Finnish cultural heritage.
