On May 23, Aki Kaurismäki received the honorary title of Academician of Arts from the hands of Finnish President Tarja Halonen, based on a recommendation from the Arts Council of Finland.
An Academician is an honorary title that can be given to persons of outstanding merit representing science and arts. The title can be held by a maximum of eight artists at any one time. The Arts Council of Finland nominated Kaurismäki following the death last autumn of filmmaker Rauni Mollberg.
The other current Academicians of Art are: author Paavo Haavikko, graphic artist Outi Heiskanen, architect Juha Leiviskä, theatre director Ralf Långbacka, author Veijo Meri, conductor Jorma Panula, and textile and fashion designer Vuokko Nurmesniemi.