Science Forum's new visual identity invites you to take a moment with science
The new visual identity, designed by graphic designer and illustrator Lille Santanen, is based on Syli, a painting by visual artist Eliina Hurtig. The new identity is shared by Science Forum and its sister event, the Night of Science.
Science Forum has unveiled a new visual identity and redesigned website. Developed together with the Night of Science, the new look makes the close connection between the two sister events immediately recognisable.
Unlike previous editions, the new visual identity is here to stay. Until now, Science Forum has adopted a different visual identity for each event, while the Night of Science has refreshed its look every few years by updating its colour palette.
"A permanent visual identity will help visitors recognise Science Forum more easily. Sharing the same visual language with the Night of Science will encourage Science Forum audiences to discover the Night of Science, and Night of Science visitors to explore Science Forum," says Mandi Vermilä, Secretary General of Science Forum.
Vermilä first came across Hurtig's work through Teosvälitys (Finnish large-scale contemporary art sales event).
"Eliina's paintings moved me deeply. They filled me with joy, curiosity and inspiration – feelings I hope visitors to both Science Forum and the Night of Science will experience as well," Vermilä says.
Rovaniemi-based visual artist Eliina Hurtig explores the experience of being human and our observations of the world around us in her work.
"Science and art both seek to deepen our understanding of the world and what it means to be human. For me, seeing my painting Syli used as part of the visual identity of these science events shows that its message of connection and togetherness is universal and timeless. I hope the painting helps build bridges wherever people, ideas and different worlds come together," Hurtig says.
Syli (2024) is a large-scale oil painting that is currently held in a private collection.
In Lille Santanen's visual identity, Hurtig's painting takes on a new life. Cropping, zooming in and zooming out on the artwork serve as a metaphor for the ways both science and art explore subjects and phenomena.
"Sometimes we step back to look at the bigger picture, while at other times we focus closely on the smallest details. Science Forum's slogan invites people to take a moment with science, so the artwork is presented as completely as possible, encouraging viewers to see the whole. The Night of Science, meanwhile, asks whether you're ready to know more, and the visual identity answers by offering a glimpse into a small detail of the painting," Santanen explains.
The Night of Science's previous, slightly playful visual identity received praise year after year from both visitors and event organisers. The new identity continues that tradition, as both the previous and the new designs were created by Lille Santanen.
Science Forum has a long tradition of introducing a new visual identity for each event. Over the years, the festival has collaborated with many acclaimed graphic designers and illustrators. Posters from previous editions will be on display during Science Forum 2027.
The redesigned websites for Science Forum and the Night of Science will also provide a better experience for visitors. Visually engaging yet easy to navigate, the new websites invite people to take a moment with science and explore everything that Science Forum and the Night of Science have to offer.
Science Forum will take place from 20 to 24 January 2027 at the University of Helsinki Main Building and Think Corner, while the Night of Science will be held across Helsinki on 21 January 2027. The full programmes for both events will be published on 22 October 2026.