Academic and professional expertise

I have done research on formal learning environments, the safety gaps of vulnerable young people and the Rights of the Child, among others. Methodologically, have experience with theme and expert interviews, different surveys and visual research methods. Besides research projects I have coordinated versatile national and international projects in visual arts education, contemporary art, and cultural policy.

Research work

Research and pedagogical interests

My research and pedagogy is based on the tradition of critical visual arts education. I develop the idea of education through (public) art.

I have published research articles in several journals. I have peer-reviewed for international scientific journals Journal of Arts Management, Law and Society, Journal of Visual Literacy and Research in Arts and Education.

Current research topics

Public art strengthening communality, developing dialogic thinking, and fostering citizenship

Utopianizing hope through public art

Rights of the Child, experience and assessment of safety of children and young people

Youth transitions from education to work, young people and social identity, social justice

Responsible research and research ethics

Higher education

I have been teaching mainly at the University of Helsinki and Metropolia University of Appleid Sciences. My goal in teaching is to provide sector-specific current knowledge and practical tools for the students.

I have taught on the courses:

Visual research methodology in educational sciences 5 study cr
Youth transitions to work in the Middle East and North Africa 5 study cr
Methods of photography as tools for socio-cultural inspiration 3 study cr
Orientations to early childhood education 1 study cr

I run interactive lectures and hands-on workshops on many topics such as:

School's Art in Education
Visual literacy, youth, and identity formation
Visual Thinking Strategies (VTS)

Action on arts and culture policy

I have been involved in the sector of art and culture policies and managed Association of Art Teachers in Finland and Ars-Häme association. I was the project manager in a research project for the Center for Cultural Policy Research Cupore. I have also worked on a project with Ornamo Art and Design Finland.