Marimekko’s founder, Armi Ratia, was recently honored with a collector coin by the Mint of Finland. Available June 4th, 2012 – one side of the coin features a portrait of Armi along with the text “Armi Ratia 1912-1979”, while the reverse features a bright red Unikko flower as designed by Maija Isola. Following tradition, the initial “M” of the artist Kari Markkanen’s surname is displayed on the coin to honour his work.
“The Armi Ratia collector coin represents the importance of open-mindedness and trust in your own abilities. These qualities are necessary to all pioneers. We are proud to release a collector coin to honour one of the most famous Finnish pioneers”, explains Paul Gustafsson, the CEO of Mint of Finland.
Thanks to Ratia’s hard work and determination, Marimekko has become a household name the world over.
“To become a part of the everyday life of people and to fulfil the secret wishes we all have. No more, no less – that was the vision Armi Ratia had for the future of Marimekko in those days. These words include the successes of today, as well: to bring out the secret wishes of people so they can have something to reflect on, something which they have never even dreamt of yet. It is determined courage, which Ratia had, and which is needed in life today”, says Minna Kemell-Kutvonen, the Creative Director of Marimekko.
Only 20,000 coins will be minted for this limited edition collector’s coin.
[Images and quote excerpts from the Mint of Finland.]
