Nordicum - Real Estate Annual Finland 2012 | Page 61

T he main goals of the special year were well-being, internationalism and the commercial export of creative enterprise and culture. The activities were based on a rather wide definition of culture – with events ranging from multicultural encounters to culinary arts – and the audience found the diverse offering very appealing: well over two million people took part in the festivities. Jouko Turto, Director of Turku Municipal Property Corporation, says that this party is just getting started. Instead of just one year on a cultural rollercoaster, Turku wants to make culture a permanent part of culture, too, in the sense that Turku wants to harness all the creative forces of the community, regardless of the sector. “We feel that when right people get together, good things will happen. Once you have the talent and the networks necessary to go out there and try something new, the City of Turku can help you find a setting that works for you and your company,” Turto lays down the strategy. Full Steam Ahead Turto points out that it is the task of the City to serve as a kind of enabler, offering e.g. cluster conveniences and synergies. The old saying “nothing attracts a crowd like a crowd” holds true here – once the legions of the Creative Class get going, they often make their nests in close proximity to likeminded people. A good example of the City’s commitment to turn the special year into a permanent thing is Logomo, an ancient engineering workshop located just off the railway station. Logomo found a new lease on life as a cultural centre which will host major concerts and exhibitions – and has already charmed its way into the hearts of both locals and tourists. Logomo was visited by 230,000 people during the year – while our target was set at 150,000 patrons, says Anna Kivinen from Turku Region Development Centre. With all the activity and plenty of people, one would not guess that Logomo is still a very much a work in progress. The main hall of the complex only opened in November, and the construction will continue for some time to come. “The renovation work will be complete in 2013–1 Ё