The delightful Finn captures his quirky and classic essence in his work for both Orrefors and Kosta Boda ... and he'd be the first to confirm what a long, strange -- and perfectly delightful -- trip its been.

Martti Rytkönen loves the U.S; he’s made enough trips here on behalf of the two companies for which he adores working – Orrefors and Kosta Boda – to qualify as a goodwill ambassador of sorts. He cherishes the store appearances and chatting with the crowds, discovering what they like about his work and what they want so he may grow as a designer of glass. “I breathe in the atmosphere,” he says, a thick accent failing to mask effervescent joy. “I have my eyes open all the time to translate what I see and hear. Everything I see and do here influences my work.” On this particular mid-spring jaunt, Rytkönen wended his way from the west coast on a three-week excursion that took him through the plain states east, signing his designs and regaling retailers and customers alike with an anecdote or two or three. Rytkönen has an arsenal of tales, all recounted with an arresting bravado and infectious smile. “I made a conscious decision to understand the U.S. market better,” Rytkönen starts, “so I come here twice a year talking about me and my product.” It’s been a great learning experience, the artist affirms. “I see so many different sides here which is why my work is both contemporary and traditional,” Rytkönen reveals.

Rytkönen is affectingly passionate about his work. “I have absolutely the best job I could ever have,” he bellows. “It’s like no one else’s. It’s more than a job; it’s my lifestyle and my hobby and I get paid for it. Isn’t that just the best?” It’s clearly a question not meant for answering, but the glee with which it is posed is palpable. Rytkönen’s like a child infectious in his enthusiasm, a joie de vivre that belies challenging and humble beginnings.

Rytkönen was raised in Ilomantsi – a small town on Finland’s Russian border – one of seven kids where his what will be, will be philosophy was forged. “Problems are to solve,” Rytkönen prefaces. “I don’t upset easily.” Perhaps that’s because he always felt a calling; from an early age Rytkönen’s artist bent was played out. He remembers using his prized coloring pencils to draw on the family pillows and sheets, something that didn’t please his mother who while not encouraging was tolerant of her son’s muse, an anomaly in the workaday logging town.