Ceramic wall plate, Laila Zink, Kupittaan Savi

Laila Zink (1915-1999). Often described as the "romantic painter of women and flowers," Laila Zink was one of the most distinctive decorative artists of Kupittaan Savi. Born in Heinola, she joined the ceramics factory in 1947 and remained there until its closure in 1969. Beginning her career as a decorator, she soon developed her own decorative collections, becoming renowned for expressive hand-painted motifs of elegant women, blooming flowers and romantic everyday scenes. Her stylised figures, characterised by bold contour lines, large expressive eyes and simplified forms, reflected both contemporary design trends and her broad interest in art history. Zink also excelled at floral decoration, particularly vibrant roses painted with energetic, almost expressionistic brushwork, while some of her geometric compositions reveal inspiration from African art. Rather than treating decoration as an addition, she carefully adapted every composition to the shape of the ceramic object, creating a perfect harmony between form and illustration. Today, her hand-painted works are among the most sought-after creations of Kupittaan Savi, admired for their joyful character, unmistakable style and enduring artistic charm.

(Photo source: Kupittaan Savi)