Bold graphics can be seen everywhere in Helsinki

Not many people are aware of the amount of graphics that surround us in our everyday lives. Yet walking down the streets, we are constantly absorbing messages ( consciously or not) from adverts, signage and banners, there is just no escape.

In Helsinki, it is even harder to NOT notice the graphics because they are so bold and colourful! Beautiful graphics and fonts can be seen everywhere, which reminds me of how London used to be, sadly, it’s no longer the case.

Illustrations and textiles are also prominent, thanks partly to the strong textiles industry. Apart from the iconic Marimekko, there are Johanna Gullichsen, Kauniste and Elina Helenius etc ( perhaps less well-known outside of Finland), just some of designers who are shaping the industry.

To celebrate the graphic design or typography in Helsinki, Napa Gallery has published a map, Font walk where visitors can download, explaining stories behind individual fonts and facades in the city centre. I didn’t have enough time to follow the route, but I did absorb the strong graphical environment whenever possible. If only I had more time…

Here are a few other contemporary Finnish graphics design studio/shops:

Polkka Jam – vintage-style patterned products

Muovo – graphical patterned products

Sanna Ja Olli – produces hemp textile products