All posts tagged: Oulu European Capital of Culture

Fabio Petani : Nature-Inspired Mural for Oulu, Finland’s Bid for European Capital of Culture 2026

Fabio Petani : Nature-Inspired Mural for Oulu, Finland’s Bid for European Capital of Culture 2026

As part of Oulu, Finland’s preparations to become the European Capital of Culture in 2026, Italian street artist Fabio Petani has created a stunning new mural titled Ferrous Sulfate, Achillea Millefolium & Lathyrus Palustris in this city that blends cutting-edge technology, a vibrant cultural scene, and scenic natural surroundings. This work, commissioned by Upeart and curated by a selection committee from over 500 artists, highlights Petani’s signature style—one that blends natural elements with chemical compositions to symbolize the environment’s delicate balance.

Fabio Petani. FERROUS SULFATE,, ACHILLEA MILLEFOLIUM & LATHYRUS PALUST. Oulu, Finland. (photo courtesy of the artist)

“Each detail in the mural was inspired by photographs I took during my time in Oulu, which were then adapted into a composition that captures the essence of the area’s natural beauty,” says Petani.

Fabio Petani. FERROUS SULFATE,, ACHILLEA MILLEFOLIUM & LATHYRUS PALUST. Oulu, Finland. (photo courtesy of the artist)

Located near the Oulujoki River, a key inspiration for the piece, the mural features local flora like Achillea Millefolium and Lathyrus tuberosus, each chosen for their symbolic representation of the city’s resilience and cultural roots. This mural’s vibrant colors drawn from nature and its harmonious design are stylistically consistent with Petani’s other works, which often merge scientific and botanical themes to reflect a deeper connection between nature and urban spaces. As Oulu prepares for its cultural milestone, this mural serves as tribute to the city’s natural beauty and the community’s enduring spirit.

Fabio Petani tells us, “This piece is more than just decoration; it is a lasting tribute to the city, preserving the spirit of Oulu’s nature for future generations.”

Fabio Petani. FERROUS SULFATE,, ACHILLEA MILLEFOLIUM & LATHYRUS PALUST. Oulu, Finland. (photo courtesy of the artist)

FERROUS SULFATE,, ACHILLEA MILLEFOLIUM & LATHYRUS PALUSTRIS, Fabio Petani

Oulu 2026 European Capital of Culture, Upeart

@fabiopetani@oulu2026official @upeart @joropoika @ollifoo

UPEA Finland 2018, A Cross Country Installation of Quality Murals

BSA + UPEA in Finland


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