One of Maija Isola’s noted prints of the 1960’s, the Kaivo pattern neatly characterizes the era of modern textile design. Part of the Arkkitehti series, the print was unleashed upon the modern scene in 1964, the same year Isola created her famous Unikko print. The Arkkitehti series was a collection of powerful graphic prints with a dual purpose. By creating a collection made of extremely large scale patterns, fabrics could be used for small scale interiors such as traditional home décor as well as large scale commercial interiors.
This idea of purposely asking designers to create extra-large patterns was dreamt up by Marimekko founder Armia Ratia, she wanted to entice professional designers to use these fabrics in large spaces such as big buildings or open public areas. In doing this, Ratia increased the value and expanded purpose of the printed fabric. As a true creative, Isola opposed this notion by saying that a designer should not have to think about the use of a fabric when creating a pattern. Despite a difference in opinion, the Kaivo print is undeniably compelling especially when viewed in large repeats. A beautiful piece of pop art with a spraying fountain motif, this print represents the dynamic and free spirit of the era.
