Last year we presented Lotta Nieminen and her lovely illustrations on NordicDesign. The graphic designer/Illustrator from Helsinki truly has her own signature style. Gorgeous colors and texture, playful details, unique compositions… It is not surprising that she counts top names like Monocle, United Airlines, and Business Week as clients. Check out her portfolio here.
From her home in New York, she answered a few questions for us.
Where did it all started?
I studied graphic design and illustration at the Aalto University (formerly University of Art and Design Helsinki) and the Rhode Island School of Design. After graduating, I worked for a year and half at a Finnish fashion magazine, before moving to New York, where I now work as a graphic designer at RoAndCo Studio. Besides my studies and full-time jobs, I’ve been freelancing as an illustrator and graphic designer since 2007. I joined the Finnish illustration agency Pekka Finland in 2009.
How would you describe your style?
Illustration: colorful and rich in textures. Graphic design: clean and minimal.
Favorite material to work with:
Illustration: Xerox machine. Graphic design: foil stamping.
Any special projects at the moment?
I’m very excited about designing for a new medium: I’m working on an illustration to be hand sewn on a cushion for a Finnish company. Their products are inspired by the local aesthetics and craftsmanship in rural areas of India.
Best thing about being an graphic designer / illustrator:
Not having to pick one or the other.
You, in three words:
Meticulous, loud, always with humor
What inspires you?
All colors but black, beautiful paper bags, New York in the morning, Helsinki in summer.
“I’m at my most creative when…”:
I collaborate.
Best thing(s) about Scandinavia:
The archipelago.
Favorite designer:
My super talented illustrator and designer friends in both Helsinki and New York, whose work I’m constantly inspired by.
Best design piece you purchased?
Rachel Comey boots from Opening Ceremony
Best address-book secret:
Amazing glove shop in Lisbon: Luvaria Ulisses Glove Shop, Rua do Carmo, 87-A, Lisbon, Portugal.
On your wish list:
Bombroo hand felted rug with embroidered pattern by Klaus Haapaniemi. (http://tikau.com/store/tikau-home/carpets-rugs-mats/felted-carpets/bombroo)
What can’t you live without?
A good Sunday breakfast with friends.
Scandinavian tradition(s) you love:
Skinnydipping at midnight. Rye bread.
Favorite travel spot:
New York, Lisbon, Paris.
You, in five years:
I love not having any clue.
