Annikki Hovisaari – A unique glazed stoneware vase – Arabia, Finland 1960’s

A unique glazed stoneware vase with a round straight body and narrow high neck extending into a slightly flared opening. Made by Annikki Hovisaari for Arabia in the 1960’s.

About Anniki Hovisaari

Annikki Hovisaari (Tampere 1918 – Tampere 2004) was one of Finland’s leading ceramic artists in the 20th century. Her work is celebrated for its unique combination of traditional craftsmanship and innovative design.

Born in Tampere, Finland, in 1918, Hovisaari developed an early interest in the arts. She studied ceramics at the Central School of Arts and Crafts in Helsinki from 1946 to 1949. This institution was instrumental in shaping many Finnish designers, providing Hovisaari with a solid foundation in both the technical and artistic aspects of ceramics.

Upon graduating in 1949, Hovisaari joined Arabia’s Applied Arts Department, where she worked under the guidance of Olga Osol. Initially, she focused on designing and painting tableware, while also creating her own unique pieces on the potter’s wheel. Her early works primarily consisted of decorative items and series produced by the department, showcasing her meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail.

In 1963, Hovisaari transitioned to Arabia’s Art Department, marking a significant evolution in her artistic journey. Here, she began experimenting with rough chamotte clay, porcelain, and stoneware, crafting large bowls, dishes, and bottles. Her pieces were distinguished by their robust forms and textured surfaces, often enhanced with vibrant glazes in cobalt blue, copper sulfide greens, and earthy browns and grays. These color choices highlighted the rawness of the materials and added depth to the smooth surfaces of her creations.

Hovisaari’s work is characterized by a harmonious blend of traditional Finnish ceramic techniques and modernist aesthetics. She was particularly known for her use of chamotte clay, which contains grog (fired clay particles) that provide a rough texture and added strength, allowing her to create larger and more sculptural forms. Her glazing techniques often resulted in matte finishes with subtle crystalline effects, adding a tactile quality to her pieces.

Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, Hovisaari actively participated in international exhibitions, gaining recognition for her innovative designs. In 1962, she was awarded first prize at the Gualdo Tadino ceramics competition in Italy. A decade later, she received another first prize in Vallauris, France, further solidifying her reputation as a leading ceramic artist.

Hovisaari continued to work at Arabia’s Art Department until 1975, dedicating over two decades to the company. Annikki Hovisaari passed away in Tampere in 2004, leaving behind a rich legacy of ceramic art that continues to inspire and captivate. Her works are held in high esteem by collectors and are featured in various exhibitions and collections, including the esteemed Collection Kakkonen, which showcases masterpieces of Finnish glass and ceramics and in numerous museums across the Nordic countries.