The first Finnish Glass Biennale’s curator is the renowned Japanese designer Akira Minagawa
Akira Minagawa, a renowned Japanese fashion and textile designer, has been invited to serve as the curator for the inaugural Finnish Glass Biennale (5–8 June 2025). Minagawa brings to the biennale his broad creative perspective and international experience, which beautifully complement the traditions of glass art while also offering visions for the future.
Akira Minagawa (b. 1967) is best known as the founder of the design brand minä perhonen. His diverse career also includes collaborations with prominent international brands such as Issey Miyake, Muji, and Kvadrat, as well as Finnish companies such as Artek, Lapuan Kankurit, and Iittala. Minagawa’s aesthetic is characterized by a distinct minimalist approach that combines functionality with beauty, nature-inspired patterns, and a deep appreciation for craft traditions.
Minagawa is also well-known as a connoisseur of Finnish culture, which is reflected in the name of his company. He once shared that he discovered the Finnish words “minä” (I) and “perhonen” (butterfly) in a Finnish dictionary. These words symbolize his desire to create products that are as beautiful and diverse as a butterfly’s wings.
For the Finnish Glass Biennale, Minagawa’s role will involve planning the main exhibition and leading a workshop for young designers. In addition, he will create a unique collection of glass art pieces to be featured in the biennale. His multidisciplinary approach is perfectly aligned with the event’s mission to explore the boundless possibilities of glass as a material and medium.
“Globally speaking, the current situation in the realm of crafts is moving in the direction of mass production and rationalization through industrialization. In the midst of all this, the Finnish Glass Biennale will serve as a platform to question the importance of human-made handcrafts and the significance of preserving the environment in which they were created. Historically, Finland has produced a great number of artists and designers regardless of genre. Thus it is meaningful that the Glass Biennale is presented in Finland, and I am honored to join as the curator of this first event,” Akira Minagawa says.
Finnish Glass Biennale 2025: A celebration of tradition and creativity
The Finnish Glass Biennale will take place in Riihimäki, Nuutajärvi, and Iittala. Key venues include the Finnish Glass Museum, designed by Tapio Wirkkala and located in Riihimäki’s former glass factory, as well as the historic industrial premises of Riihimäen Lasi. The programme will feature professional seminars, expert-led tours, exhibitions of Finnish art glass, and satellite events produced in collaboration with the local creative community.
“Inviting a curator for the first-ever Finnish Glass Biennale sets the foundation for its future. The goal of the Finnish Glass Biennale is to grow into a globally significant institution. The FGB also aims to expand beyond traditional glass art, inviting creatives from various fields to explore the limitless potential of glass. Akira Minagawa is the perfect choice as the curator and ambassador for the inaugural biennale,” says Kari Korkman, Director of Luovi Productions.
A growing appreciation for handcrafted glass
The knowledge and traditions of handcrafted glass were recently added to UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage lists. With a growing appreciation for artisanal craftsmanship and a demand for individually produced art and design objects, the Finnish Glass Biennale responds to this global interest by uniting professionals, collectors, and enthusiasts of glass art. The event offers locals and cultural travelers a unique opportunity to experience art that bridges tradition with modern creativity.
The Finnish Glass Biennale promises a one-of-a-kind experience for glass enthusiasts.
The Finnish Glass Biennale is organized by the City of Riihimäki and the Finnish Glass Museum and is produced by Luovi Productions, the creator of Helsinki Design Week and the Fiskars Village Art & Design Biennale. The inaugural event will take place in 5–8 June 2025.