Artek's FIN/JPN Friendship Collection Explores Japanese Craftsmanship

To celebrate the 100-year anniversary of diplomatic relations between Finland and Japan, Artek recently unveiled its FIN/JPN Friendship Collection at Milan Design Week. The new collection of furniture explores Japanese craftsmanship under the scope of Artek’s signature contemporary and classic designs.

Schemata Architects, founder Jo Nagasaka reimagined the classic Stool 60, Bench 153B and Tea Trolley 901 with his ColoRing surface treatment which blends traditional Udukuri and Tsugaru-nuri pattern styles. Finnish-Korean design duo COMPANY celebrated Finnish culture with six decorative and functional ceramics.

Inspired by public bathing cultures of Finland and Japan, architect and designer Koichi Futatsumata reworked the Kiulu Bench with his focus on material and detail. The Stool 60 Aizome was created in collaboration with plant-based indigo-dye specialist BUAISOU from the Tokushima prefecture. Artek also re-introduced the cherry blossom Kirsikankukka cotton textile pattern, which is printed by a family owned artisan Kyoto print-house.

Finally, Artek built on its relationship with Japanese fashion and textile designer Akira Minagawa to publish Pieces of Aalto. A print that chronicles Minagawa’s conversations with Alvar and Aino Aalto accompanied by drawings centered around Aalto standards, products, and architectural shapes.

The FIN/JPN Friendship Collection is on display now at the heart of Brera, Milan with an installation designed by Linda Bergroth in collaboration with a team of leading Japanese and Finnish designers, architects, and craftsmen.

Artek’s FIN/JPN Friendship Collection exhibition is now on display at Milan Design Week.

In case you missed it, Ugao is the minimalist clothing rack made for corners.

Artek FIN/JPN Friendship Collection at Milan Design Week
April 9-13, 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Via Lovanio 6
20121 Milano MI
Italy