7 / 2023

When steel meets glass

One of Finland's largest stained glass artworks has found its home on the outside wall of Vexve's headquarters.

One of Finland's largest stained glass artworks has found its home on the outside wall of Vexve's headquarters. The artwork was part of world-renowned artist Riitta Nelimarkka’s art exhibition held in Sastamala last summer.

The most keen-eyed passers-by at the Tyrvää industrial area may have already spotted the impressive artwork on the outside wall of Vexve's headquarters. It's a stained-glass artwork by Finnish artist Riitta Nelimarkka, Without thinking too much (2016).

As a valve solutions provider for district energy, Vexve does not, at first glance, seem the most likely place for art. This surprising encounter of steel and glass got its start last year when the opening of the Nelimarkka’s Hassuna exhibition and the 100th anniversary of Tyrvään Pappila and the 60th anniversary of Vexve were celebrated simultaneously in Sastamala.

"I think the artwork reflects the same courage that Vexve’s employees have had for the past 60 years going forward," says Otto Kukkonen, Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors of Vexve Armatury Group.

The 12-metre-long and several hundred-kilogram glass work, which has been said to be the largest in Finland, was also displayed on the wall of the Hietaranta pavilion building before the Hassuna exhibition. Now, however, it has finally found its final home at the Vexve factory. The colourful work sits quite nicely against the grey wall of the factory.

"We hope that the work will bring joy to our employees and visitors alike. It's great to have the art of world-renowned artist Riitta Nelimarkka here in our factory to celebrate Vexve's wonderful history. I hope that our company will continue with the same momentum for the next 60 years!" Otto Kukkonen concludes.

Vexve Oy is the world's leading provider of valve solutions for the heating and cooling needs of cities and industry. Valve and network control solutions developed for demanding applications enable the transition to a low-carbon future. Vexve is part of the Vexve Armatury Group, which employs around 700 people at its factories in Finland, the Czech Republic and Germany. The group's turnover in 2022 was €115 million.

More information:

Director, Sales and Marketing | Maria Kalli | Tel. +358 50 379 1730 |