A new graphic look and illustrations was created in 2025 for Design District Helsinki, which celebrated then its 20th anniversary. Illustrator and Artist Sami Viljanto designed a playful and colorful illustration of Helsinki and its design neighborhoods for the Design District. In addition, graphic designer Ilkka Kärkkäinen created a special version of the association’s logo for the anniversary year. After the anniversary, the look was kept for ongoing use. The look was featured in an exhibition during the summer season of 2026, when it was selected for the Mikkeli 14th Illustration Triennial.
“Being part of the exhibition feels really great, especially since it featured the illustration made for Design District Helsinki, where I was allowed to follow my own voice so freely. Thanks to DDH for that! Also. it’s an honor to be a small part of the long-standing story of the Mikkeli Illustration Triennial, which has featured so many of my own role models“, says Sami Viljanto, the creator of the new look.
A total of 77 works by 47 illustrators were selected for the 14th Mikkeli Illustration Triennale. The exhibition is on display at the Mikkeli Art Museum from June 13 to September 13, 2026. The Illustration Triennial showcases illustrations published in Finland over the past three years in as diverse a way as possible. Sami Viljanto also recommends visiting the local Kirjala Coffee Roastery while you’re visiting the exhibition in Mikkeli.
