Tapio Veli Ilmari Wirkkala (1915–1985). Widely regarded as the leading figure of modern Finnish design, Tapio Wirkkala transformed everyday objects into works of timeless beauty. Trained as a sculptor at the Central School of Industrial Arts, he began working for Iittala after winning the company's glass design competition in 1946 and soon became one of the defining voices of post-war Scandinavian design. Equally at home designing glass, plywood sculptures, silverware, exhibition architecture, banknotes and iconic bottles for Finlandia Vodka and Koskenkorva, his creativity knew virtually no boundaries. Nature remained his greatest source of inspiration, reflected in masterpieces such as the Kantarelli vase, the sculptural Tapio collection and the ice-textured Ultima Thule glassware. Working closely with skilled glassblowers, Wirkkala continually pushed the technical possibilities of glass while maintaining a deep respect for craftsmanship. Winner of numerous Grand Prix awards at the Milan Triennale, recipient of the Pro Finlandia Medal and later named an Academician of Arts, he left an extraordinary legacy that continues to define Finnish design around the world.

(Photo source: Maaria Wirkkala)