The Legacy of Olavi Lindén: Innovating in Applied and Decorative Arts at Fiskars

When Finns see an orange-coloured pair of scissors, they swell with national pride and check whether it is an original Fiskars model. This stems from Fiskars’ iconic launch in 1967 when the company introduced scissors with bright orange plastic ergonomically shaped handles. These vibrant handles were a real innovation, and soon, the scissors became a cult object. Today, they are a classic testament to Finland’s design excellence.

The Fiskars Phenomenon

Fiskars is Finland’s most successful manufacturer of gardening tools and scissors of all kinds. Renowned internationally, the company has consistently held a strong reputation for its exemplary designs. Fiskars’ philosophy is founded on a firm principle: design as teamwork, where the individual designer remains anonymous. This approach is quite impressive in a nation where designers are celebrated like film stars.

Yet, one name shines through this collective ethos—Olavi Lindén. Having been in charge of development at Fiskars for decades, Lindén is the guiding force that defines and allocates design tasks. His philosophy? “Good industrial design must improve the product and reduce costs.” This straightforward yet profound approach has driven Fiskars’ design ethos to incredible heights.

Olavi Lindén: The Gray Eminence of Fiskars

Olavi Lindén’s role at Fiskars is integral to its success. As the lead designer, Lindén has orchestrated the creation of numerous revolutionary products. Under his guidance, Fiskars has produced designs focusing on aesthetics, functionality, and user comfort.

A notable example is the Handy axe, a world-first design in which the handle is made from synthetic material surrounding the blade, in reverse of traditional construction, where the blade surrounds the handle. This innovative approach is a hallmark of Fiskars’ design philosophy under Lindén’s stewardship.

Design Philosophy: Ergonomics and Impact

Lindén’s belief that “pure ergonomics, judged by the sole criteria of the measured results of experiments” represents the cornerstone of Fiskars’ design success. Every product from Lindén’s team results from meticulous experimentation and user-focused design. Fiskars’ products are not just tools; they blend art and utility, making everyday tasks easier and more enjoyable.

Olavi Lindén – Video

Lindén’s Craftsmanship and Innovations

Aside from his leadership at Fiskars, Lindén is recognized for his craftsmanship, particularly in designing wood-made tools. His expertise is highlighted in a short video titled “Olavi Lindén: Portrait of a Creative Spirit,” showcasing his talent and work at Fiskars.

Moreover, Lindén’s innovative spirit extends to patent-related activities. He is listed as one of the inventors of a patent for a shearing tool, further cementing his role as a pivotal figure in the company’s continual forward march.

Conclusion

Olavi Lindén’s legacy at Fiskars is marked by a relentless pursuit of design excellence that balances functionality, cost-effectiveness, and aesthetic appeal. His work encapsulates the essence of applied and decorative arts, positioning Fiskars as a beacon of Finnish innovation and design.

Sources

Abendroth, U., Polster, B. (2000). World Design: The Best in Classic and Contemporary Furniture, Fashion, Graphics, and More. United States: Chronicle Books.

Fiell, C., Fiell, P. (2006). Industrial Design A-Z. Germany: Taschen.

Lidwell, W., Manacsa, G. (2011). Deconstructing Product Design: Exploring the Form, Function, Usability, Sustainability, and Commercial Success of 100 Amazing Products. United Kingdom: Rockport Publishers.

Woodham, J. (2016). A Dictionary of Modern Design. United Kingdom: OUP Oxford.

Related Articles

• Fiskars – Oldest Industrial Company in Finland
• The Evolution of Scissors: More Than Just a Cutting Tool
• The Evolution and Design of the Knife: A Testament to Practical Artistry
• The Fiskar Orange-Handled Scissors: A Design Classic
• Matisse’s Garden

More on Finnish Design