The Strength That Carries Us
Marko Häkkinen

• Location: River Aura, in front of Cathedral Bridge 
• Time: 3–6 December 2026, 4–10 pm

Water carries light, and light gives shape to music. 

Spectacular cubes of light floating on the dark surface of the River Aura come alive to the sound of music. Marko Häkkinen’s audiovisual installation The Strength That Carries Us combines the surroundings, light and sound to create a memorable experience. The installation, stretching across the River Aura, can be experienced from both riverbanks.  

Just as the river carries the cubes of light, our connections with others carry us. Just as the river supports the cubes of light, our connections with others support us. Being present, sharing memories and even small acts of kindness can give us strength when we need it most. The installation invites us to reflect on how we, too, can be the strength that carries one another.  

Marko Häkkinen, artistic director of Path of Light 2026, is a Finnish sound, visual and light artist. His works bring together space, light and sound to create immersive experiences. Häkkinen is an internationally renowned multidisciplinary artist whose work combines sensitivity and power. His light installations have been showcased across Finland, including at the opening ceremony of Lahti’s year as European Green Capital, the Valoilmiö Light Art Festival in Hämeenlinna and the City of Light festival in Jyväskylä, as well as in the Pulse of the Earth installation in Punkaharju.