Elli Maanpää, a Finnish contemporary artist, in her studio in Etu-Töölö, Helsinki, surrounded by her vibrant paintings.
Elli’s art radiates warmth like a colorful gateway painted in six shades
As a teenager in a family of four siblings, Elli Maanpää (b. 1985 Turku), a contemporary artist from Finland, craved her own space but couldn’t find it in her crowded home. Instead, she discovered the power of her imagination—a realm where none could trespass.
Elli's journey continues today in her Helsinki studio on Meilahti where she transforms materials into art. She creates acrylic paintings using six colors that feel most like her. Her artworks are an extension of herself, radiating the warmth and playful roar of a sun-soaked lioness.
Elli hopes her paintings offer a colorful gateway. Through her art, she invites others to explore their imaginations. Her animation background brings movement and storytelling into her work, while her fashion design shows in the characters' outfits—all blended with ease, built from millions of hours spent creating.
Beyond creating a legacy of joyful contemporary art, Elli is driven by a mission to challenge the art world’s imbalance. Frustrated by the absence of female artists on the list of the 100 most expensive paintings—despite the abundance of female nudes—she believes that true abundance isn’t just about money, but about having a louder voice and a seat at the table where decisions are made. Through thoughtful storytelling and behind-the-scenes documentation, Elli shares not only her creative process but also her vision for a more inclusive and future for visual arts.
Art Exhibitions
NOW
8.4. – 29.6.2025 || Lämpö ja läheisyys || Omenamäen palvelukeskus, Porvoo, Finland
8.4. – 3.8.2025 || Kukoistaa || Toukovuoren palvelukoti, Porvoo, Finland
COMING SOON
Fall 2025 || Kampustaiteilija || Kaarina, Finland
Hello there! Have a question or just want to say hi?
Don't hesitate to drop me a line using the form below. Please contact me by filling out the form provided below or via email at elli@maanpaa.com.
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"Primavera: Pre-Summer Celebration" art exhibition in Helsinki featuring colorful and summery paintings by visual artist Elli Maanpää. The exhibition was open in May 2024.