Inspired by Iittala’s rich tradition dating back to the 1930s in creating art pieces, Art Works carries on the legacy of many internationally recognised designers. In fact, Iittala’s international breakthrough in the 1950s and 1960s was largely driven by the exquisite art pieces created by Tapio Wirkkala, Timo Sarpaneva and Kaj Franck at the time.

In 1970, the Nuutajärvi factory established its own art collection, with designers such as Heikki Orvola, Kerttu Nurminen and Oiva Toikka participating. The first collection was simply entitled Art. The original idea of Art was to promote the Nuutajärvi factory and apply the designer and craftsmen’s vast knowledge of glass–making techniques to a small series of unique pieces. These handcrafted and individually signed objects provided a counterpart to the more commercial tableware being made at the time. Art eventually evolved into the Pro Arte Vitrea collection, also made in Nuutajärvi, and later in 1981 to Pro Arte by Iittala and the Arabia factory. Thus, today’s Art Works simultaneously revitalizes a cherished concept and carries on the lasting design against throwawayism of Iittala–iconic objects, timeless quality and a high level of craftsmanship.

2009 is the first year for the Art Works collection. The plan is to give a different designer every year, along with a team of craftsmen, an opportunity
to explore their creativity, experiment with their chosen materials and push the boundaries of art and design. While we are proud to revive a tradition at Iittala, Art Works is about the future. Looking forward, owning an exclusive piece of art should be an inclusive experience. From the designer to the craftsmen to you, Art Works for everyone.