"KIVI" VASE (CLEAR)

This is a KIVI vase designed in 1987, manufactured by Nuutajärvi from 1988, and sold by Marimekko.
It seems that manufacturing by centrifugal molding was technically difficult, and it is presumed that it was only produced for a short period due to the small number of individual pieces.

The KIVI, which is still in production today, was born from a solo exhibition held in 1983.
Hilkka Rahikainen, who was the art director of Marimekko at the time, visited this exhibition and was deeply impressed by the textile works displayed there, leading her to commission designs for Marimekko textile prints.
Afterward, she was also commissioned to design a tealight candle, and KIVI was designed as a minimalist glass tealight candle holder that harmonizes with Marimekko's vibrant and highly decorative patterns.

The bottom is embossed with "marimekko®︎ Heikki Orvola / NUUTAJÄRVI".
A rare item.
The image on the right in the 12th photo is a 60mm high candle holder.
*In good condition with no noticeable damage.

HEIKKI ORVOLA｜HEIKKI ORVOLA｜1943-｜FINLAND

Heikki Orvola majored in ceramics at the School of Art and Design, studying under Kyllikki Salmenhaara.
In 1968, his final year, he learned glass manufacturing at Nuutajärvi as a summer intern, and his pressed-glass ashtrays Omena and Norsuntassu were commercialized.
Although he had already decided to join Arabia, he started his career as a designer at Nuutajärvi at the invitation of Kaj Franck. (At that time, Arabia and Nuutajärvi were both part of the Wärtsilä group.)
He worked at Nuutajärvi until 1983, designing numerous products and art pieces. Afterward, he continued to be involved as a freelancer, working as a designer in a wide range of fields, including enamel products at Järvenpää Emali, ceramics at Arabia, and textiles at Marimekko.
He also taught ceramics and glass design at his alma mater, the School of Art and Design, for many years, mentoring future generations.
He has received many awards, including the Grand Prize in the student category at the Faenza International Ceramics Exhibition, the Pro Finlandia Medal, and the Kaj Franck Award.