Glass designer Erkki Vesanto (1915–1990) was a pioneer in Finnish glass design and the first designer to be hired in a permanent position at a domestic glass factory. His long career at the Iittala glass factory (1936–1980) left a significant mark on Finnish glass design and its history.

Vesanto’s career began in the 1930s, during the rise of functionalism as a key design movement. He embraced these principles, with his designs characterized by clean lines, practicality, and timelessness. Vesanto’s work at Iittala extended across four key areas: designing utility glass, art glass, and crystal; acting as a mediator between artists and production; creating the factory’s catalogs; and eventually serving as the first director of the Iittala factory museum.

Erkki Vesanto’s glass designs include a versatile range of objects, from utility glassware to unique art pieces. With an in-depth knowledge of Iittala’s production, he played a vital role in establishing the museum’s collections and exhibitions, which significantly contributed to the factory’s visibility and popularity.

This new exhibition highlights Erkki Vesanto’s extensive work in Finnish glass design. It showcases utility and art glass objects, drawings and sketches. The exhibition provides insight into both the stages of Vesanto’s career and his importance in the development of the glass industry.

The exhibition offers a fascinating look at Vesanto’s achievements as a designer and as the first director of
the Iittala factory museum. It is a unique opportunity to explore the history of Finnish glass art and learn more about one of its most influential figures. Glass Designer Erkki Vesanto will be on display until May 11, 2025 at the Aalto2 Museum Centre.

The Aalto2 Museum Centre is a meeting place for architecture, design and cultural heritage in Jyväskylä, Finland.

Media inquiries:
press@aalto2.museum

More information on the exhibition:
Mari Murtoniemi
mari.murtoniemi@alvaraalto.fi
+358 40 355 9162