Smart Work 2027: Interactive Story Wall
The Smart Work page showcases everyday innovations and success stories developed by the City of Hämeenlinna’s employees.
This idea has been on my mind for years. Illustration is a natural way for me to express myself. I wanted children’s imagination, stories, and art. I thought about how discussion and old-fashioned storytelling could be enriched in front of a large picture. The idea was to bring old mural painting traditions into everyday educational situations. One thought was that, just as a smartboard draws people in to interact with it, a giant picture book image awakens dreams. In a way, it’s also something very familiar.
I started by interviewing the children. What did they want? I gathered children from each group, and they got to influence the events in the picture. We created a framework. I “composed and arranged” the work. I also painted in the midst of everyday life, during which the children would stay and chat with me. Delightful storytelling moments emerged. The children even began sharing very personal and sensitive things. This was the deepest purpose of this interactive art project. At the same time, new ideas emerged, which I tried my best to incorporate into the work.
A large shared work of art was created from the children’s wishes, suggestions, and ideas. Moments of storytelling together with the children. Curiosity was sparked by the still image. A tool.
Interaction at the wall can continue for a long time, as the work has continuity. Joy must always be visible in the work. And here it certainly is—joy, and even tears. Emotions are present in everyday life.
I also made laminated pictures based on the children’s stories. An adult can hold Learning Moments with the children using the loose pictures. The loose pictures can go on adventures in the hallways, and the children have to spot them and bring them back to the wall. The pictures can go missing as often as the adult deems necessary.
Bringing this work to life released an enormous amount of shared energy. Adults are creating cultural history through the interactive story wall. Thanks to Elisa Stenvall, who made the project possible, and to the team who supported it!
Developers
Ojoinen Early Education Centre:
Marja Ohvo, Early Childhood Education Assistant
Anu Kovalainen, Special Education Teacher in Early Childhood Education
Minna Turunen, Early Childhood Education Teacher
Eija Lehtola, Early Childhood Education Childcare Worker