Modernist Rut Bryk Ceramic Wall Relief in White and Blue, Arabia c. 1980s

In the 1960s' Rut Bryk, already a pioneer of Finnish ceramic art, began making more simplified and modern abstract wall relief compositions. This work, although from the 1980s, is considered as a step into her last magnum opus, Ice Flow at the Mäntyniemi Presidential Residence, that was completed in 1991 after a few years of work. The work was inspired by a small river that flows into Lake Pulmankijärvi where Bryk and Wirkkala would stop on their southbound journey after their annual summer holiday in Lapland. There are two smaller pieces at the Rut Bryk section in the EMMA museum that were also executed as spin-offs to the Ice Flow. Also featured in the Rut Bryk book by Harri Kahla (see photo).

This piece is a rectangular ceramic relief and is composed of many pieces of smaller geometrical polished and glazed ceramic tiles at various dimensions, depths and surfaces fixed on a painted wooden base.

She has placed in the middle of the relief two origami-like compositions of white geometrical figures representing ice sheets flowing on water, but also seem like modernistic flying butterflies, to which she had a passion for. That passion she most probably got from her father, who was a known lepidopterist and an artist and during her long summers in Lapland that she spent with Tapio Wirrkala in their summer house.

This piece exemplifies Bryk's talent of sparing use of blue color. The relief is in beautiful condition and signed Bryk.

Rut Bryk (1916–1999) was a pioneering Finnish ceramic artist known for her intricate, colourful, and often architectural tile works. Blending elements of modernism, folk art, and storytelling, her pieces ranged from delicate, nature-inspired motifs to large-scale geometric compositions.

Originally trained as a graphic artist, Bryk transitioned into ceramics in the 1940s, working at Arabia, Finland’s renowned ceramics manufacturer. Over the decades, she developed a distinctive style, experimenting with textures, glazing techniques, and sculptural forms. Her later works, particularly large ceramic reliefs, became key features in public spaces, showcasing her ability to merge art and architecture.

Bryk was also part of Finland’s mid-century design movement, alongside her husband, designer Tapio Wirkkala. Although Bryk herself was very shy, and rarely gave any insight into her works, let alone interviews or pictures. Her work continues to be celebrated for its timeless beauty, meticulous craftsmanship, and innovative approach to ceramics.