OAF 2026 applications are open November 3–28, 2025! OAF is a multidisciplinary art festival that will be held in August 2026 as part of the Helsinki Festival. OAF brings together artists working in the margins with international art audiences and cultural actors. The festival has been described as wild, mind-expanding, bold, equal, inclusive, and joyful.
OAF gives artists the voice and power to define themselves what outsider art is – or to not define it. OAF explores the theme of being an outsider, employs people from different backgrounds, and enables new encounters. Equally, together. In 2026, OAF invites not only artists but also curators and partners who work in the field of outsider art.
OAF develops a model of inclusive curation and festival production that enables outsider art creators equal participation and influence in the art field. Artist selections are made by an artistic working group that includes outsider art creators from different fields and artist mentors. In addition to the open call, the festival program is also curated by invitation.
The festival production is managed by Pertin Valinta. Organizing partners are the Autism Foundation and Kukunori association. In 2026, OAF opens an open call also for organizing partners!
In this year’s open call you can also apply for Pertin Valinta Gallery’s 2026 exhibition slots!
Read more and apply here.
