Sizable Mythical Mermaid Ceramic Sculpture, Siren by Sakari Kannosto 2022

A substantial ceramic figure in deep blue tones, Siren combines the features of a bird, a fish, a mermaid, and a human. The result is a serene yet striking presence, a creature that appears to have adapted to a future environment. The size of the sculpture and the richness of the blue glaze give it a calming weight, while the hybrid nature of the figure introduces a quiet sense of mystery.

Kannosto notes that the piece draws on mythological origins and the tradition of ancient Greek ceramic siren sculptures. Here, the form has softened into something gentler and more contemplative, yet still clearly belonging to a world in transformation. The textured surface and soft modelling add warmth and individuality, making Siren both familiar and otherworldly.

As with much of Kannosto’s work, the piece reflects themes of adaptation, imagination, and the shifting relationship between humans, animals, and the environment.

The piece is large and heavy. Please see the photo of it being held by a person. The piece is also directly from the artist.

Kannosto is known for his imaginative hybrid creatures and environmental narratives, and Siren is one characteristic expression of that vision.

Sakari Kannosto (b. 1973) graduated from the Academy of Fine Arts in Helsinki and has held numerous exhibitions in Finland and abroad. His works are represented in major public collections including the Finnish State Art Collection, EMMA, the Tampere Art Museum and Aalto University. In recent years his pieces have also been shown in New York and at international fairs such as TEFAF and Design Miami.

Kannosto has also created several public artworks in the Helsinki metropolitan area, including KIERTÄÄ / CIRCLE (2020) for Aalto University’s Töölö campus, Seitsenmeren Ihmeet (Wonders of the Seven Seas) 2019–2025 for the EMMA collection in Tapiola, Espoo, and Sirahvi Gate (2025) in Arabia, Helsinki, produced in collaboration with the Arabia Art Department Society.

He served as a visiting artist at the Arabia Art Department Society in 2019 and was selected as a full member in 2020. His hybrid ceramic animals have positioned him as one of the notable successors to the tradition of Finnish sculptural ceramics, most notably as a successor to Michael Schilkin (1900–1962).