Kastehelmi glassware – Iittala 

Oiva Toikka (born 1931) is one of the great figures of Finnish design, and his imaginative, rich and bold glass art has inspired large swathes of contemporary Nordic design.

Oiva Toikka's personal style is clearly reflected in the utilitarian objects he creates, often far removed from traditional Nordic minimalism. In addition to glass, his artistic activities include staging, fashion design and plastic interior design elements.

Oiva Toikka has acquired a solid international reputation throughout his prolific career, which dates back to the 1950s and is studded with collaborations with renowned Finnish and foreign designers and artists. He has won several prestigious awards, including the Kaj Franck Design Prize and the Prince Eugen Medal. In 1993, Oiva Toikka was awarded the honorary title of Professor of the Arts by the State of Finland. Birds by Oiva Toikka, a series designed for Iittala, combines the artist's boundless imagination with his expertise in the characteristics of glass. The unique, colourful birds, all handmade, have become the passion of collectors around the world.