Leena Rouhiainen

Leena Rouhiainen is a Professor in Artistic Research at the Theatre Academy of the University of the Arts Helsinki and Head of its Research Institute. A renowned dance artist since 1990, she has created 18 choreographies and performed extensively. She co-founded the Suomussalmi improvisation group, recognized nationally for site-specific dance and music. Her research focuses on phenomenology, artistic practices, and decolonial studies, with over 25 peer-reviewed publications and leadership in multiple funded projects.

Education includes a Doctor of Arts and MA in Dance (Theatre Academy Helsinki), MA in Somatic Studies (University of Surrey), and certifications in Pilates, therapy, and body psychotherapy. She has held teaching roles since 1997, including part-time lecturer and current doctoral supervision. Her funded projects include Body and Other (Kone Foundation) and Intuition in Creative Processes (Research Council of Finland).

Leadership roles include Executive Board Member of the Society for Artistic Research (2015–2020), Chair of Nordic Forum for Dance Research (2008–2010), and member of Finland’s Scientific Council for Social Sciences and Humanities (2025–2028).