Ryijy – Rug! exhibition

Originally a substitute for furs used as protective cover on boats and sledges, the Finnish “ryijy” (long-piled rug), also known as “ryijy rug”, has evolved into a beloved artistic textile for both everyday life and special occasions in Finland Ryijys have been made by folk women according to old traditions, and they have been created by Finland’s leading artists and designers. RYIJY! is an exhibition that presents the story of the ryijy with its glowing colours from Finnish nature. The exhibition displays ryijys from old folk weaves and the most recent works of art. The exhibition is enriched by demonstrations of ryijy techniques, and visitors can try their hands on making ryijys. Miniature ryijys designed by Elina Aalto are produced by an art weaver from the Friends of Finnish Handicraft. Sewing of ryijys can be tried out in workshops held by the Taito Helsky Craft School. To mark the Craft School’s anniversary year, students display their new interpretations of the ryijy. RYIJY – RUG! until 27 september, 2009 Design Museum [1], Helsinki [1] http://www.designmuseo.fi/main.asp?sid=2&sivu=18&kpl=81&show=1