Scan Magazine | Design | Katri Parikka Design / LuKLabel
Something to always remember Using recycled materials to create something incredibly touching, Finnish textile artist and illustrator Katri Parikka’s style has become synonymous with harmonious innovation. Scan Magazine spoke to the acclaimed artist about what drives her. By Maria Pirkkalainen | Photos: Jenna-Maaria Photography
When textile artist Katri Parikka creates, there’s nothing that can stop her. Sitting on the floor in her studio in a beautiful wooden house in Joensuu, Finland, she starts by looking at the objects that will become part of her next piece. “I might cry, I might laugh – creating art is emotional for me,” the artist describes, of her creation process. What makes Parikka’s designs so unique is that she works with recycled materials to
Katri Parikka.
create art with a calming, harmonious effect. This can be seen in the book covers she illustrates; the products she designs, from notebooks to kitchen trays; and the commissioned work she does. “I call them memory paintings, as my commissioned pieces are made from items that the client chooses. It’s a great way to hold something that’s dear to you close in a new way,” Parikka explains. Her products can be found both online on Etsy and in boutiques across Finland. In the end, what truly drives Parikka is the aim for her pieces to give people a chance to reflect, and to stop for a moment. “My art has often been said to have a meditative quality, a sort of conscious presence,” she says. With dedication like this, the result is always something truly unforgettable.
Web: www.katriparikka.com Etsy: KatriParikkaDesign Facebook: parikka.design Instagram: @parikkadesign
Timeless design — accomplished together with its customers LuKLabel originated from the idea of boldly doing something different. The stylish paper, plywood and textile products have become somewhat of a phenomenon in less than three years. What is also special about LukLabel products, however, is that they have been designed by the customers themselves. By Mari Koskinen | Photos: LukLabel
“Our goal is to make products that truly speak to our customers, so it was obvious to us to involve them in the design process right from the start,” explains Tiia Hakala, founder of the label. “Today, the LukLabel design team is a group of 40 enthusiastic and passionate people. There, everyone is free to boldly express their thoughts and opinions. “The design team helps us to search for ideas for products that are missing from their lives. They also test the prototypes to ensure that we find the ideal design, which truly lasts a long time and fulfils a purpose. Not one product has been produced 28 | Issue 127 | August 2019
without the involvement of the customers.” Renowned LukLabel products include, among others, the Kauno mirror and the Kajon shelf. “We believe in being loyal to our own vision and customers’ wishes, instead of following short-term trends,” Hakala says. The products are mainly sold in the online shop, and the brand has a range of distributors all over Finland. “The next big event for us is Finland’s largest design show, Habitare. Our focus is also on growing and going international,” concludes Hakala. LukLabel has certainly proven to be true to its motto: #madeinfearless.
The Kauno mirror is available in two colours: nature and black.
Web: www.luklabel.fi Facebook: LukLabel Instagram: @luklabelofficial