Åland Art Handicrafts
The
artistic handicraft tradition is alive and well in Åland. The Åland art
crafters combine old handicraft traditions with new creativity. In the
craft shops you'll find creations made of natural materials such as
wood, textile, wool, leather, metal and clay.
Art handicrafts mean products that are not only well made, but also with good form and function, says Inger Nygård at the Ålands Slöjd & Konsthantverk r.f.
association. An art crafter is responsible for both planning and design
as well as the technical and practical realisation - compared to a
designer that mainly plans the product or the crafter that often works
with existing models.
-
Art handicrafts have developed into something between traditional
handicraft and the designs that appeared with industrial revolution,
she continues. When it comes to Åland, art handicrafts got their
upswing in the early 80's when several potters were established. Since
then art handicrafts have developed powerfully and risen to the level
where they are now.
High quality
Inger Nygård further explains that it's
the great variety, the quality and a distinctive style that is
characteristic of Åland art handicrafts.
- There is much variety
because there are art crafters in many areas that use techniques such
as textile, metal, wood, ceramics, and glass but also thanks to the
individual art crafter's vast selection of products. Additionally the
Åland art crafts have a high quality level both when it comes to form
and function as well as technique.
- Characteristic is also the local connection to the
archipelago - many of the products connect in this way, in the artist's
choice of material, form and function, she adds. They are also
distinguished by their availability, because crafts from Åland are sold
in many different places. Art craft exhibits are continually arranged,
especially in the summer.
Fine memories
Handicrafts from Åland give a fine and lasting memory from Åland.
-
An art handicraft product from Åland is not only a memory that reminds
you of a place or an experience; it's also a beautiful and functional
product. The great variety is assurance that there are products for
everybody!