INTO THE FUTURE

In the Debutants series, Helsinki Festival in collaboration with Elisa, showcases a group of highly talented artists on the cusp of their professional breakthrough, drawn from the festival programme.

The Debutants are young, fresh and talented artists, at a highly dynamic point in their lives and professional careers. Art arises at the crossroads between the past and the future, drawing from experience whilst always looking ahead. It is this aspiration the Debutants embody - their works are a glimpse into the future, a taster of what's to come.

Debutants 2011: Mikko Ijäs and Miina-Liisa Värelä

	Mikko Ijäs Mikko Ijäs is the set and visual designer for Kertomuksia keittiöstä. Ijäs creates digital images using touch screen devices. His work reflects his enthusiastic and insightful approach to his environment, visual culture and life in general. Painting: Mikko Ijäs
	Miina-Liisa Värelä Soprano Miina-Liisa Värelä is the winner of the 2009 Kangasniemi Singing Competition, who will be taking to the stage in Mahler's Resurrection symphony. Värelä is a dazzlingly impressive performer, whose vocal talents lend themselves to Lied as well as opera. Photo: Ville Paul Paasimaa