This beautiful book examines the design achievements of Finland over the past seven decades, focusing on the central and decisive role played by Modernism. It discusses the work of such renowned architects and designers as Alvar Aalto and Kaj Franck, as well as of manufacturers, including Arabia and Marimekko.

"Applied art and design have shaped culture and the economy in Finland since the late 19th century. In this process they have become an integral aspect of the identity and international image of the country. This book outlines the evolution of design in Finland from the founding stages of the 1870s to the beginning of the 21st century. It focuses on its main underlying factors -- industries, training and education, culture, designers and products. Design has operated in the tension between art and industry, and continues to do so, belonging to both but never exclusively to either one."--Publisher's description.

"Out of the Blue showcases Finlands unique design culture from legendary figures like Alvar Aalto and heritage manufacturers such as Marimekko, Iittala, Artek, or Nokia to a new contemporary generation of chefs, explorers, makers, and entrepreneurs. The book takes an insightful and entertaining look at the typical Finnish characteristics of inventiveness, community spirit, love of liberty, ongoing transformation, and the free rein to be wacky"--provided by publisher.

Explores the special Finnish version of the man-made in the context of unspoiled nature, of modern design and its relationship to folk styles of the past

This book examines the outstanding design achievements of Finland over the last seven decades, focusing on the central and decisive role played by Modernism. It is the first volume in English to provide a thorough account of the artistic and cultural qualities of Finnish design as distinguished from the design of its Nordic and other European neighbors. Also considered are the principal ideas, individuals, and influences that combined to produce Finnish modernism, as well as its international reception.

This book - the first comprehensive study of Marimekko designs - presents more than one hundred examples of exuberant Marimekko fashions and home furnishings that gave the company a definitive presence on the world design stage.