Welcome to Neule Kalevala, a journey of rediscovery inspired by the timeless wisdom of the Kalevala. This Finnish Fairytale weaves together our heritage and contemporary spirit, guiding us toward spiritual well-being in a world of abundance. As we honor the return of the Goddesses, the Great Magi, the magic of the Northern Lights, invite you to embrace the essence of Finnish lifestyle.

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"In a ball I bound them tightly

  and arranged them in a bundle.

In a storehouse loft I palced it,

in a little box of copper.

In the song my song was resting,

long remained in darkness hidden."

Are Kalevala´s opening words.

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The journey began by my time in London and a desire to rediscover the essence of our Finnish heritage. This small country, often overlooked, holds a rich tapestry of history and wisdom that deserves to be remembered. Through these creations, I invite you to connect with the profound memories of who we are, embracing the beauty and strength of our roots. Join me in celebrating our culture and heritage as we weave together the threads our past.

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How does the Kalevala speak through art and artists in this time?

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The Kalevala stands as a cherished treasure for Finland and a remarkable contribution to the world. Over time, it has fostered a deep sense of nationalism, playing a pivotal role in our journey toward independence. In today's world, its significance remains, reminding us of our identity and the importance of unity in our collective pursuit of a brighter future.

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The spirit of the Kalevala continues to resonate, sharing its timeless wisdom through art and artists alike. Discovering this treasure while studying in London ignited a passion within me, urging me to return to Finland and embark on a journey to create a national fashion inspired by the Kalevala. This endeavor has transformed into so much more than I ever imagined, blending tradition with contemporary creativity to celebrate our rich heritage. Join me as we explore this vibrant fusion of culture and artistry.

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The Wearable Fashion Kalevala

 

embodies the timeless wisdom of the Kalevala, guiding us towards spiritual well-being and a flourishing future. This knitwear collection serves as a proud symbol of our national heritage, fostering a sense of identity and self-esteem among Finns. Explore the enchanting representations of the Finnish Kalevala Goddesses, as they inspire a connection to our roots and celebrate the beauty of our culture. Embrace the spirit of the Kalevala with every piece, and wear a story that resonates through generations.

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NeuleKalevala is a captivating story collection that celebrates modern folk costumes, national costumes, and ancient attire, all crafted by the talented fashion and Kalevala artist, Mai Niemi. Each piece in this collection is a tribute to Finland's rich cultural heritage and has received the prestigious approval of the Finnish National Museum. Immerse yourself in the artistry and history woven into every garment, and let NeuleKalevala inspire your appreciation for traditional Finnish fashion.

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Finnish Knitwear heritage

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After England, I recognized a gap in our own heritage, when compared to the rich traditions of the Norwegians, Icelanders, and Irish. Inspired by this observation, I set out to create a unique line of Finnish knitwear that embodies our culture and craftsmanship. Join me on this journey to celebrate and revive Finnish knitting!

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The spark for my journey began with a study in London that explored the Kalevala and its profound impact on Finnish art and design. Reading the English version opened my eyes to the richness of our culture and the wisdom embedded in the Kalevala. Encouraged by my teachers to infuse our designs with cultural essence, I transformed the Jussi pullover into a modern masterpiece for my final show at Central St. Martin's College of Art. In that moment in London, I felt the spirit of Väinämöinen, the renowned rune singer of the Kalevala, swimming into my consciousness, forever changing my creative path.​​​

 

Creating The Wearable Kalevala

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The Kalevala lives on in the eternal memory of our bodies, passed down through song from generation to generation. My own connection to this rich tradition was ignited in 1989, during my pregnancy with my son Max. This led me to explore the Viking era, inspiring the creation of the Viking series. Further explorations into Lapland and shamanistic roots gave rise to the Arctica series, ultimately bringing me back to the depths of history with the Kalevala, beginning with Ilmarinen, the master smith of the New Sampo, the Magic Mill of Wealth and abundance.

 

Then on May 2nd, 1999, a transformative journey shifted as my Kalevala design spirit companions revealed that the Finnish knitwear tradition was ready to evolve. That turned out to be seamless, one-size-fits-all knitwear, accessories and later jewelry to embody a sustainable fashion ethos for the modern age.

The Magic Wardrobe, a concept of sustainable fashion for the new age, was born.

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Neule Kalevala embraces the present moment, constantly evolving to reflect the dynamic journey of our culture and the consciousness of humanity. This embodiment of change invites us to explore the richness of our shared experiences, celebrating the beauty of transformation and growth. Join us as we navigate this ever-changing landscape together, fostering a deeper connection to ourselves and each other.

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Neule Kalevala is a modern national folk costumes

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In Neule Kalevala,the modern national folk costumes meet personal expression. Our unique outfits and accessories can be effortlessly combined to reflect your individual style and cultural heritage. Just as women in the past adapted their single set of clothes with jewelry and accessories for various life stages, our collection embodies the spirit of versatility—more with less. Experience the timeless elegance of Neule Kalevala, a wardrobe that celebrates the beauty of femininity through every age and season.

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