Super Kello: A Monumental Art Installation in Oulu, Finland

In the heart of Oulu, Finland, a new public art installation titled Super Kello (Super Clock) has captured the attention of locals and visitors alike. This unique project, part of the Climate Clock series, challenges the pace of modern life by inviting people to slow down and reflect. The installation, created by the Danish art collective Superflex in collaboration with Portuguese architecture firm KWY, is a striking blend of art, nature, and environmental consciousness.

The Concept Behind Super Kello

Super Kello is a two-meter-tall marble sculpture that functions as both a public art piece and a meditation on time. The artwork features an audio component where a local fisherman, Elina Halonen, reads Homer’s Odyssey at a rate of one word per hour. Completing the entire epic would take a staggering ten years, emphasizing the theme of slowing down in an era dominated by speed and efficiency.

The project, which was completed in 2026, is part of Oulu’s Cultural Capital Year initiative. It aims to provoke thought about the relationship between humans, nature, and the environment. As Rasmus Rosengren Nielsen of Superflex explains, “This artwork is about slowing down time. It’s a reminder that we are part of nature, and we need to consider our impact on the planet.”

Design and Purpose

The sculpture’s design is inspired by the concept of a clock, with its rhythmic reading of the Odyssey mimicking the ticking of a clock. Every hour, a single word from the epic is broadcast from a speaker near the installation, creating a meditative experience for those who visit. The piece is not only intended for humans but also for marine life, as it is designed to function as a habitat for fish if sea levels rise due to climate change.

“Perhaps in 500 or 1,000 years, the water will have risen, and the sculpture will be underwater. We hope the fish will appreciate it too,” Nielsen added. This forward-thinking approach underscores the installation’s commitment to environmental sustainability and long-term ecological considerations.

Superflex: A Legacy of Public Art

Superflex, founded in 1993, is known for its innovative and often interactive public art projects. The collective has created installations worldwide, including the Superkilen park in Copenhagen and the Super Metro project. Their work often involves community engagement and challenges conventional notions of art’s role in society.

For Super Kello, the team sought to create a space that encourages contemplation and connection with the natural world. “We want people to sit, touch, and even enjoy a coffee on the sculpture. It’s a place for reflection,” Nielsen said. The installation’s accessibility and inviting design reflect Superflex’s philosophy of art as a shared, communal experience.

Climate Clock Series and Environmental Message

Super Kello is one of six permanent public art installations across North Ostrobothnia, part of the