Designer: Ulla Procopé

Ulla Procopé (1921–1968) was a Finnish ceramic designer renowned for her contributions to the Arabia ceramics company during the mid-20th century. Her designs, characterized by both functionality and aesthetic appeal, have left a lasting impact on Finnish design.

Early Life and Education

Born Ulrika Eleonora Matilda Procopé-Nyman on November 17, 1921, in Helsinki, Finland, she was the daughter of Lieutenant Colonel Aleksander Fredrik Procopé and Karin Maria Spåre. She graduated from the School of Arts and Crafts in Helsinki in 1948, after which she joined the Arabia ceramics factory. She worked there until 1966, specializing in practical ceramics designed for everyday use. 

Notable Designs

Procopé's work is distinguished by its practicality and artistic quality. Among her most famous designs are:

Ruska: Introduced in 1960, the 'Ruska' series, named after the Finnish word for 'autumn color,' became one of Arabia's most popular lines. Each piece features a unique, rustic look achieved by spraying powdered black iron onto matte glazing, resulting in color variations from pale to deep brown. There is also a blue and green version of the series.

Valencia: Designed in 1960, the 'Valencia' series showcases hand-painted blue geometric decorations inspired by Southern European ceramics. Procopé's early life near the French-Spanish border influenced this design, reflecting her exposure to Mediterranean aesthetics. 

Anemone: This series features hand-painted floral patterns, exemplifying Procopé's ability to blend functionality with artistic expression.

Legacy

Procopé's designs have been celebrated for their timeless appeal and continue to be sought after by collectors and design enthusiasts. Her work is represented in numerous museums across the Nordic countries, reflecting her significant contribution to Finnish ceramic art.

Personal Life and Death

After retiring, Procopé moved to the Canary Islands, where she lived until her death in 1968. She passed away at the age of 47 due to an occupational lung disease, which she had contracted while working at the Arabia factory. 

Ulla Procopé's work remains a testament to the fusion of functionality and beauty, embodying the essence of Finnish design and continuing to inspire contemporary ceramic artists.