Ulla-Maija Vikman

Ulla-Maija Vikman
Born 1943, Oulu, Finland

Threads stretched like a warp form a surface that Ulla-Maija Vikman paints as a painter would a canvas. She repaints and washes the threads two or three times
to achieve the tones she wants. Known as “Finland’s colorist,” her work has
been selected for numerous government building commissions, including the UN General Assembly in New York, when Finland was host. “My inspiration is the material itself,” says Vikman. “The vertical threads have their own natural rhythm complemented by the horizontal patterns. Like a weaving, the pieces
are based on vertical and horizontal elements.” Vikman’s work is always hung
at some distance from the wall, which gives the impression of being in free fall, floating in the air. The slightest breeze or draft makes the threads move, affecting both the light and the form of the work. This kinetic effect brings the piece to life within its environment.

Ulla-Maija Vikman, Reed, 2003, painted viscose, steel frame, 73 x 10.5". Courtesy of browngrotta arts.

Ulla-Maija Vikman image courtesy of TEXO.
Artwork image courtesy of browngrotta arts.