Finnish Glass Biennale, from 5 to 8 June 2025 in Riihimäki, Iittala and Nuutajärvi
Finland is known as a design nation and glass in particular has a long tradition in the country. In June 2025, the first-ever Finnish Glass Biennale will be held in Iittala, Riihimäki and Nuutajärvi, a region known for its glassmaking tradition.
The Finnish Glass Biennale invites creative professionals and anyone passionate about glass art or cultural tourism to experience and explore the boundaries of Finnish glass and design. International visitors are encouraged to discover innovations in glass technology and attend a seminar highlighting the versatility of glass as a material.
The programme includes curated exhibitions, live demonstrations, the Glassblowing World Championship, and a vintage glass market designed to appeal to both seasoned collectors and a younger audience. Visitors are invited to attend workshops, panel discussions, guided tours and explore the new “Glass route” – a cultural journey spanning two iconic hubs of Finnish glass, Nuutajärvi and Iittala.
Works selected for the main exhibition at the Old Glass Factory in Riihimäki include pieces by
Arni Aromaa, EGS, Matias Karsikas, Konsta Klemetti, Aleksi Puustinen, Janne Rahunen, Helmi Remes, Kimmo Reinikka, Sauli Suomela, Henri Timperi, and Tommi Toija. Fresh perspectives from young and innovative talents are presented in a joint exhibition of students from various art and design schools, including Aalto University.
The Biennale will culminate in a featured showcase by Japanese designer Akira Minagawa, titled “Historical Works of Finnish Glass Artists – From Art to Everyday Life”, presenting pieces from the collection of The Finnish Glass Museum. Minagawa has also designed a unique glass artwork, created in collaboration with glassblower Kaappo Lähdesmäki in Nuutajärvi.
In Iittala, the 110th anniversary of legendary designer Tapio Wirkkala will be marked with panel discussions, hands-on workshops, and guided tours. Meanwhile, the Finnish Glass Museum’s Glass Day sales event will celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Friends of the Finnish Glass Museum association by commissioning the production of 500 Sun Bottles designed by Helena Tynell. Visitors are invited to witness the glassblowing process live.
Full programme on the Finnish Glass Biennale website → More information
The Finnish Glass Biennale is organised by the City of Riihimäki, The Finnish Glass Museum, and Luovi Productions – the founder and producer of Helsinki Design Week and the Fiskars Village Art & Design Biennale.