Simona Smirnova has carved a unique niche in New York’s music scene by blending Baltic folklore with boundary-pushing jazz. A Lithuanian-born vocalist, composer, and virtuoso kanklės player (the Lithuanian zither), Smirnova is celebrated as a global ambassador of her nation’s indigenous instrument.

Vytenis Jankūnas transforms the bustle of city streets into thought-provoking art. Born in Lithuania and now based in New York, he is known for contemporary conceptual works that explore urban life, perception, and photography.

A mystical forest, ancient legends, and a dash of Broadway showmanship – Kalevala the Musical is a theatrical experience like no other. This emerging production reimagines Finland’s national epic, the Kalevala, as a contemporary musical, complete with sweeping songs and fantastical storytelling.

With an acoustic guitar in hand and a story to tell, Ida Metsberg creates music that resonates with honesty and heart. This Finnish singer-songwriter, now based in New York, merges the confessional style of contemporary pop with the rich narratives of folk music.

Riivo Kruuk is an Estonian visual artist known for creating works that combine Baltic folklore with striking modern compositions. Despite his young age, he has already built an international following, showcasing framed digital prints and large-scale murals that capture the spirit of his Eastern European roots.

Sonja Hovik Brendås is a Norwegian dancer who seamlessly transitions between contemporary, jazz, hip-hop, and ballet. She focuses on channeling strong emotions through movement and has honed her craft as a dance major at Marymount Manhattan College. Her technique, paired with her flair for creative expression, sets her apart in New York’s competitive dance community.

Arta Jēkabsone is a Latvian vocalist and composer whose warm tone and inventive spirit have earned her a place among today’s leading jazz voices. She has been recognized with top honors at international competitions, including the Montreux Shure Jazz Voice Competition, and she added a third-place finish at the Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Voice Competition to her growing list of achievements.

Thelma Sigurhansdóttir, also known as Thelma Gella, is an Icelandic visual artist whose work bridges the gap between reality and imagination. Primarily a painter, she constructs vivid narratives that invite viewers to see beyond the surface, blending clarity with dreamlike elements. Her art sparks both curiosity and introspection, offering a glimpse into the unknown.

Michaela Lind is an award-winning Swedish performer, filmmaker, and theater-maker recognized for her experimental approach to storytelling. Based in Brooklyn, she is the co-founder of ARA Theater & Media, a multidisciplinary theater and production company. 

Kristin Jacobsen is a visual storyteller who captures the essence of Nordic nature and identity through her art.