Arctic Opposites
Spreading around the North Pole, the Arctic is one of the most fascinating regions in the world. In our permanent Science Centre exhibition in Arktikum, this region of opposites can be experienced and studied both from above and within.
Arctic Opposites is the science-based exhibition of the Arctic Centre at the University of Lapland. The exhibition takes you from the dark polar nights and freezing cold to a summer full of light, colours and sounds.
Content is based on Arctic research
The Arctic Opposites exhibition presents the Arctic region’s phenomena, its people and nature, and its global importance. The exhibition is designed for a wide audience, including international visitors, school groups, and locals.
The interactive exhibition aims to inspire both adults and children. Visitors can experience the Arctic region, for example, by building an igloo or creating their own snowflakes. All exhibits are based on Arctic research.
The exhibition has five main themes: Welcome to the Arctic, Cryosphere, Eight Seasons, Living Arctic, and Exploring the Arctic. Each theme complements the others and deepens the understanding of the region’s unique character and its global role.
Bringing Years of Work to Life
The design of the permanent exhibition was carried out over a long period and in several phases. The renewal process began in 2019, and content and concept design started the following year. Technical design began in the summer of 2023. Construction started once funding was secured in April 2024.
The opening of the renewed exhibition was celebrated on Finland’s Independence Day in 2024.
The idea of opposites, experientiality, multisensory experiences, and responsibility guided the design work. Responsible choices were present at every stage, from building materials to exhibition content.
Renewal and the growth of tourism have raised visitor numbers to record levels
Just over a year after the opening, a record-breaking 172,661 visitors explored the Arktikum building. 65 percent of these visitors were international guests.
The increase in visitor numbers has been significant, as Arktikum had 135,000 visitors in 2023. The growth of tourism in Rovaniemi and the rising interest in the Arctic region have contributed to the growth.
The creators of the exhibition
Executive producer: Nicolas Gunslay
Digital design: Santeri Happonen
AD and engineering: Anna Hyvönen
Content procuders: Marjo Laukkanen ja Leena Rantamaula
Construction: Tero Poikela
School cooperation: Jonna Katjamäki
University of Lapland
City of Rovaniemi
Regional Council of Lapland
Frederik Paulsen
Concept design: Pentagon Design Oy, OiOi Collective Oy and Granlund Oy
Architectural design: Arkkitehtisuunnittelu Voutilaine
General contractor: Laplan Oy
Graphical design: Mainostoimisto Puisto Oy
Illustrations: Tytti Muurinen
Exhibits: Flatlight Creative Oy, Heureka Overseas Productions, Motor Oü & Gagarin, OiOi Collective Oy and Project: syntropy GmbH
Showcases and furniture: Adapzon Oy, Puusepänliike Ari Karvo Oy ja Saaren Puusepät Oy
Print: Kaiverrus Kallio Oy
