Lokal: Tell us a little about yourself and your work

Armi Teva: “I am a visual artist based in Helsinki. I studied ceramic and glass art at Aalto University and have ended up working diversely in the fields of art and design. In recent years, I have focused on ceramic art, illustrations, and public art projects. In my free time, I enjoy swimming and solving moderately challenging crossword puzzles.”

L: What drew you to work with ceramics? Has this relationship changed over the years?

A.T.: “I made my first ceramic lumps as a child. In high school, I attended a sculpture course where I got to work with clay, and this sparked my interest in studying ceramics. My studies lasted several years, during which I realised that designing monochromatic functional objects wasn’t my strong suit. I was always drawn to working with the surfaces and became fascinated by patterning techniques. At one point, I even grew somewhat tired of ceramics and shifted my focus to illustration during my master’s studies at the Department of Media. However, a chance encounter with the Naamat (Faces) series brought together ceramic materials and image-making in a way that has remained exciting for me to this day.”

L: How do you plan your works?

A.T.: “I often work intuitively with ceramic pieces, without much initial planning. However, as the scale of the works grows, so does the need for detailed sketches. Client commissions and public art projects require highly precise drafts and preparatory work. My primary planning tools are always pen and paper. Drawing is my way of thinking.”

L: Do you have sources of inspiration that have stayed with you over the years?

R.K.: “I continuously draw influences from the surrounding life, everyday experiences, and environments. Colours, humor, melancholy, beauty and strangeness often catch my attention.”

Shop: Armi Teva’s Works

Explore: Lokal Creators