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Tapio Wirkkala: Iconic Designer and Maker Myth

Dawson charts the influence and development of Tapio Wirkkala in 20th Century Finnish glass, and as an iconic figure in international glass and design. The focus of the research has been an analysis and evaluation of the artist and his individual creative, visual, and technical contribution to the art of glass, glass making and design within the factory system. The research also explored the complex relationship between technological and cultural change and their impact on individual artistic expression. The role of the artist in industry, and an investigation of the collaborative process between artists, master-craftsmen and glass technologists has therefore been an important area for discussion. In the forward to the publication, the Director of the Finnish Glass Museum, Prof Heikki Matiskainen PhD says - ‘The description of Tapio Wirkkala and the history of his work contain new information based on material that includes interviews with contemporaries. This analytical scholarly study will remain a source for art-historical studies that will be referred to around the world’

400pp and extensively illustrated. Published by the Finnish Glass Museum, 2013, to accompany the major exhibition of the same name at the Museum from May – December 2013.