HELSINKI - A sustainable nonwoven fabric from Finland's Suominen has been used to create a public art installation in a Helsinki design centre.

The installation by artist and experimental designer Megan McGlynn is set on display in Glasshouse Helsinki, a retail environment that opened its doors to visitors this week. The main material of the installation is from Suominen’s sustainable product portfolio: a biodegradable nonwoven made of cellulosic fibres.

The installation is called Geo Pilvi and consists of eight folded structures that hang from the ceiling of Glasshouse Helsinki. “The organic curves of these clouds are created entirely from straight geometry, referencing their surrounding architecture as well as nature,” McGlynn described.

The main material used in the installation is 100% cellulosic and responsibly produced nonwoven by Suominen. “The cellulosic fibers are carefully opened and distributed on a web and pure water is used to induce mechanical interlocking to provide an optimal level of strength without any chemical binders or other harmful substances. Water is circulated in the process to minimize the environmental impact and water consumption in the process,” said Miika Nikinmaa, manager, R&D at Suominen.

“Working with this material was interesting for me as an artist. It is very thin, strong and tear-resistant. I am very pleased with the combination of strength and translucency of the material,” added McGlynn.

“We are very excited about this collaboration. Innovation and sustainability is at the core of everything we do at Suominen, and this installation really shows that with innovative and creative mindset our nonwoven material turns into amazing artwork,” said Noora Rantanen, Manager, Sustainability & Marketing.

The installation is exhibited in Glasshouse Helsinki from May 27, 2021 onwards. Glasshouse Helsinki is located at Aleksanterinkatu 13, 00100 Helsinki.

Megan McGlynn is an artist and experimental designer from Philadelphia, USA. McGlynn has a Master of Contemporary Design degree from Aalto University and has been living in Helsinki since 2017. McGlynn’s artwork is inspired by structures both organic and man-made, and focuses heavily on crisp linework.

Web: glasshousehelsinki.com