Finnish Institute in France

Institut finlandais (The Finnish Institute in France) is an independent and multidisciplinary platform between Finland and France. In collaboration with different international institutions, academia and creatives, Institut finlandais engages actively with critical discourse through its onsite and off-site programming. We seek to explore how a cultural framework can foster international conversations in creative fields, such as design, fashion, architecture, cinema and performing arts.

Institut finlandais was opened to the public in 1990. Designed by the architect Juhani Pallasmaa, the facilities of the institute are located in a former cinema, in the heart of the Quartier Latin in Paris, which is an attractive international meeting place and platform to present Finnish culture, know-how and society. The premises were renewed during a major renovation in 2017–2018, led by architect Pekka Littow’s Littow architectes, and opened again to the public in July 2018. Studio Joanna Laajisto has designed the interior decorations.

Institut finlandais principal onsite activities consist of a gallery, a cinema and a café. Our café Coutume Institut is located in the Great Hall of the building, where we also regularly host talks and presentations. Located on rue des Ecoles, the Galerie of Institut finlandais and its various exhibitions provide a showcase for Finnish art and design. The 60-seat auditorium on the
ground floor offers regular film programs and other activities, such as Finnish language courses.

Institut finlandais is maintained by the Foundation of the Finnish Institute in France.