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Finnish Design Brand Artek Celebrates 90th Anniversary with Playful Collaborations

by creativehomex

Artek will launch a series of special products and events celebrating the legacy of its four founders and their lasting influence on contemporary design.

As Artek steps into its ninth decade, the brand is unveiling an exclusive collaboration with Moomin, along with reissues of classic pieces such as the Stool 60 and Cabinet 250.

Founded in 1935, Artek has spent 90 years bringing together modernist design, artistic expression, and Finnish craftsmanship. The four founders Alvar Aalto, Maire Gullichsen, Aino Aalto, and Nils-Gustav Hahl—shared an idealistic vision of creating high-quality furniture that would elevate everyday living while showcasing Finnish design on the global stage.

Staying true to its origins, Artek continues to collaborate with like-minded designers who share its values, emphasizing the cultural identity of Finland in the global design landscape.

At the heart of Artek is our founders’ vision of modern living, where aesthetics and functionality work in harmony, says Marianne Goebl, Managing Director of Artek.

For our 90th anniversary, we are proud to collaborate with Finnish independent creators whose design philosophy aligns with Artek’s. Just like Aino and Alvar Aalto, they believe that good design has the power to improve everyday life.

The First Release: Artek+Moomin

The first launch in Artek’s anniversary series is the Artek+Moomin collection, a collaboration with the beloved characters created by Finnish artist Tove Jansson. This special edition features the iconic Stool 60 and Cabinet 250 in celebration of both Artek’s 90th and Moomin’s 80th anniversaries.

Since their first appearance in 1945, the Moomins have become a global phenomenon, with their stories exploring themes of courage, nature, and friendship. Moomin’s influence extends beyond literature into theater, film, gaming, music, exhibitions, and even theme parks.

For this collaboration, Artek has integrated early hand-drawn illustrations by Tove Jansson into its designs, merging timeless Finnish furniture with an enduring cultural icon. The Artek+Moomin series will officially launch on March 25, 2025.

The Stool 60 anniversary edition features laser-engraved Moomin sketches and handwritten notes on its seat and bentwood legs, resembling childhood doodles on a school desk. To enhance its nostalgic appeal, this edition is finished in a warm honey-toned stain and will be available for a limited time until the end of 2025.

Similarly, the Cabinet 250, crafted from solid birch with a honey-stained finish, features Moomin illustrations hidden inside, creating an element of surprise and nostalgia when opened. Only 90 pieces of the Cabinet 250 will be produced, each individually numbered.

More Anniversary Collaborations and Sustainable Initiatives

In the second half of 2025, Artek will introduce a special collaboration with Finnish design house Marimekko, blending printed textile artistry with Artek’s renowned bentwood craftsmanship.

Later in the year, Artek will reintroduce selected archival designs, celebrating the craftsmanship and innovation of Aino and Alvar Aalto. Some of these reissues will be available as limited editions, while others will return to Artek’s permanent collection.

Looking toward the future, Artek is reinforcing its commitment to sustainability. As the brand primarily sources wood from Finnish forests, it is launching initiatives focused on forest conservation, with dedicated events taking place at Artek stores worldwide throughout the year.

Special 90th Anniversary Poster by Inka Bell

To commemorate this milestone, Artek has commissioned Finnish contemporary artist Inka Bell to design a special anniversary poster, drawing inspiration from the brand’s signature designs and aesthetics. The poster will be available for purchase starting March 20, 2025, serving as both a decorative piece and a collector’s item for design enthusiasts.

Founded in 1935 in Finland, Artek remains a key player in the international modern design scene, bridging the worlds of furniture, architecture, and art. Its collections of furniture, lighting, and home accessories continue to be crafted by leading Finnish and international designers.

Source: 77° Global Furnishings Media

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