Luonto – Yhteys luomakuntaan: Lasin ja keramiikan mestarit 2 is part of a six-part book series presenting Finnish glass and ceramics from a period of more than a hundred years. Written in Finnish, the series showcases up to 2,000 works of art from the private collection of businessman and patron Kyösti Kakkonen – it also offers an unprecedented look into the treasures of Collection Kakkonen, one of Finland’s most prestigious private art collections.

Each volume in the Masters of Glass and Clay series is an independent work focusing on a specific theme in the history of Finnish design. The second part of the series, Luonto, delves into the significance of nature as a source of inspiration in Finnish design by introducing the works of four glass and ceramic artists: Michael Schilkin, Toini Muona, Tapio Wirkkala and Aimo Okkolin. Along with essays written in Finnish, the richly illustrated book covers the artworks with the help of plentiful photos as well as portraits drawn by artist Vappu Rossi.

Ice, straw, lakes, elk and bear: deeply inspired by nature, Finland’s designers captured the magical qualities of the north in glass and clay. Their work bolstered the myth of Finland as a primal yet modern nation of the north.

Featured artists:

• Michael Schilkin
• Toini Muona
• Tapio Wirkkala
• Aimo Okkolin