Matias Karsikas, The North Abloom - Pro Vitrea Prize exhibition

Matias Karsikas (b. 1989) is a sculptor and designer. He was chosen as Finland’s Young Designer of the Year in 2020 and as the first recipient of the newly established Pro Vitrea Prize in 2023. His accompanying exhibition at the Finnish Glass Museum presents highlights from his earlier career alongside a selection of northern flowers newly crafted at the Iittala glassworks as part of the Pro Vitrea Prize.

Pro Vitrea is a biennial prize awarded in recognition of outstanding quality and distinctive workmanship or a significant deed contributing to the advancement of Finnish glass culture. The Pro Vitrea Prize was founded to support and increase the visibility of Finnish glassmakers and to raise overall appreciation of Finnish glassmaking expertise. The prize is awarded by the Friends of the Finnish Glass Museum and the Finnish Glass Museum.

In its statement, the Pro Vitrea jury said: “Karsikas is the creator of contemporary sculptural pieces that have a memorable impact. He is an intriguing artist who makes you wonder where his distinctive creative sensibility will lead next”.