The Abstract Sensory Journey invites you to experience what happiness looks, feels and sounds like for the people of Oulu. At the heart of the installation is the Wall of Happiness, which brings together the responses of more than 1,400 Oulu residents to one question: “What makes you happy?” These answers formed the foundation for an art route woven throughout the hotel – a dialogue between everyday life and art that reveals the many sources of happiness.

Happiness in Oulu was explored through a geographically targeted social media giveaway. By keeping participation easy and accessible, the number of responses grew large enough to reveal clear patterns and shared themes.

The answers repeatedly reflected the same idea: happiness often springs from small moments, close human relationships, nature and peace. Many mentioned time spent with family, unhurried mornings or moving through nature. These recurring themes form the emotional core of the installation and inspire its visual and multi-sensory expression.

“Our most important mission is to create happiness – to bring our guests small and large experiences.

The Abstract Sensory Journey allows us to make this visible through art, while also taking part in shaping the Oulu2026 cultural year,”

says Päivi Kaarlela, General Manager of Original Sokos Hotel Arina.

Behind the Oulu-based KaikuArt are the mother–daughter duo Sanna Anttonen and Inka Leskinen. Their collaboration began with a desire to bring more emotion and meaning into homes through art. Now that same idea expands into a communal art experience where happiness becomes both visible and shared.

“When you recognise the sources of your own happiness, you can invite more of them into your life.

That’s why creating the Abstract Sensory Journey feels especially meaningful,”

says artist Sanna Anttonen.

The installation is built on the idea that happiness is not one grand event but a collection of many small things. Each piece invites you to reflect on what your own happiness is made of – and how you might bring it closer to your everyday life.

Artist Introductions – The Creators Behind the Sensory Points

Sanna Anttonen – KaikuArt

Sanna Anttonen is an Oulu-based artist originally from Puolanka. Her studio sits on the shore of beloved Lake Vilpusjärvi, where the calm of nature, silence and a landscape that has accompanied her for decades form the heart of her creativity. Although her path led from youthful design dreams into the banking world, working with her hands remained constant throughout life. When acrylic painting entered the picture, she found her home again – creativity had been there all along. Her works reflect the understated beauty of nature and the human need for a place where the mind can rest. Read more about KaikuArt here.

Tiina Makkonen – Mimosa.pop

Tiina Makkonen is a self-taught artist from Oulu who exchanged the hectic world of IT for color, gentleness and the small joys of everyday life. Becoming a mother and facing a serious illness shifted her direction toward painting – first as a lifeline, then as a passion and eventually as a profession. In spring 2025, Mimosa.pop was born, and since then “Mimosas” have spread joy across Finland. Tiina’s art is created in recycled frames and tells stories of moments that celebrate life’s beauty: flowers on the table, wind on the cheek, and the relaxed step after a long day. Read more about Mimosa.pop as part of the sensory journey here.

Mikael Kunnari

Mikael Kunnari is a digital artist from Oulu whose works have been displayed as far as New York. At the core of his artistic approach is a simple thought: pause, even for a moment. What began 12 years ago as time-lapse photography – an escape from the rush of daily life – opened a path into art and presence. His motto “Just Slow Down” is visible in each piece, offering a small breath amidst everyday busyness.

Suvi Autto

Born in Lapland and having lived in many places throughout her life, Suvi Autto views the world from many angles. For her, there is no single right way to see or experience. Even when dealing with serious themes, Suvi is warm, light-hearted and humorous – and writing gives voice to thoughts not always spoken aloud. Her texts highlight self‑compassion, the richness of being human and new perspectives that invite the reader to pause for peace and understanding. Read more about Suvi Autto here.

Experience the Art Already – and Watch It Grow!

The Abstract Sensory Journey is already available to explore at Original Sokos Hotel Arina. It will continue to develop, with the full installation completed during February 2026. The journey consists of seven sensory points, each placed thoughtfully throughout the hotel. At every point, you can immerse yourself in the atmosphere and experience the artwork through multiple senses. You can pick up the Sensory Journey material from our reception and embark on a self-guided adventure that takes you through all seven points – into the heart of happiness in Oulu.

Group Bookings & Additional Information

For larger groups, the art experience can be booked through our sales service in connection with hotel, restaurant or meeting reservations.

📞 Phone: 08 3123 255 (Mon–Fri 08:00–17:00)

📧 Email: sales.oulu@sokoshotels.fi

Wishing you delightful moments with art!