Shanghai Expo2010 4.5.2010

The Finnish pavilion at Shanghai World Expo 2010 is called “Kirnu” (“Giant’s Kettle”). Designed by a team from Helsinki-based architect's office JKMM, Kirnu won first prize among 104 entries in the design competition, which was announced in May 2008. The results were made public in October 2008 in Helsinki. The planning started immediately, and construction began in April 2009, with the pavilion due to be completed in April 2010. The head designer of the pavilion is architect Teemu Kurkela. Below is a description of the Kirnu concept as seen by the architect. The Finnish pavilion portrays Finland in microcosm, presenting both Finland and its society to the world. The pavilion can be seen as a miniature city built by Finns. Its inner space tells stories of Finland and the Finns. The pavilion is an example of how Finns are building better cities according to the principles of sustainable development. Like Finnish society, the pavilion combines creativity, high technology, and culture – a unity that makes for good human life. The sculptural architecture of the pavilion is aimed at creating visions of such themes as freedom, creativity, and innovation. The pavilion emerges like an island from the surface of the water. A bridge leads visitors over the water and into the pavilion. At the heart of the pavilion is the miniature city’s centre and forum for events, the “Giant’s Kettle,” where ideas can meet and mix.
The pavilion has been designed totally by computer, using the latest 3D modelling techniques. The Finnish Tekla program was used for designing the structures. In the design and construction of the building, the successful close cooperation between Finnish and Chinese professionals has been a wonderful experience. (Tekla received the 2009 Internationalization Awards of the President of the Republic
Ella contributed all the philatelic items namely, the First Day Cover with the mini sheet, duly cancelled with the special postmark, the two cards commemorating Finland’s participation in the Exhibition and the mini sheet of stamps to this blog.