Jukka Hynninen

Bone carver and carpenter Jukka Hynninen is a passionate bone and wood worker. The craftsman uses elk and bear bone, Finnish wood species, precious metals, and natural dyes in his products. In addition to artisanal techniques, Jukka utilizes modern technologies in manufacturing. He finishes the products using traditional handicrafts.

His jewellery is made of elk bone and portrays medieval symbols, petroglyphs, or rock paintings. They are stories about the everyday life and beliefs—life and death of the ancient inhabitants. Mushroom knives, bottles and jars are elaborate utility and gift items. Their shapes are organic and the combinations of materials are skilfully executed.

Jukka Hynninen is Finland's only bear bone jewellery maker. Bear bones are difficult to obtain, as hunters are reluctant to hand over bear parts due to the material being subject to a LUKE (Natural Resources Institute Finland) notification obligation. The bear has always been a revered, almost sacred animal. It is treated with respect. A piece of these feelings has been successfully transferred into Jukka's products.