Tapio Wirkkala

From graphic art to banknotes, Finnish-born Tapio Wirkkala's portfolio is a quite arguably one of the most versatile. Still, he is most widely known for his wonderful work with glass. Texture plays a big role in Wirkkala's creative portfolio. His 1952 "Tapio" glassware experiments with air bubbles, while the 1968 "Ultima Thule" glassware mimics the melting ice of Scandinavia. Even in ceramic, he was able to flawlessly capture the crumpling of a paper bag with his "Bag Vase." Wirkkala has participated in many international exhibitions and won many awards, including six gold medals at the Triennale in Milan. Wirkkala also served as the artistic direction at the the University of Arts and Design in Helsinki for many years.