ABOUT
Kalle Kotselainen is an Estonian blacksmith and goldsmith creating rare Damascus steel works and one-of-a-kind jewelry designed to be worn, experienced, and passed on.
Techniques
Kalle creates one-of-a-kind pieces from precious metals, gemstones, and forged steel. Each work is crafted with deep respect for the material and a refined artistic vision - resulting in timeless objects designed to endure and carry meaning.
With over two decades of experience, Kalle Kotselainen is an Estonian blacksmith and jewelry designer whose work bridges fine craftsmanship and artistic expression. Raised in a family of accomplished artisans, he developed an early understanding of material, form, and precision - foundations that continue to shape his practice today.
Specializing in unique jewelry crafted from precious metals and gemstones, Kalle also works at the intersection of jewelry and blacksmithing, creating sculptural and exhibition pieces. He combines traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques, exploring the full potential of each material to shape works with a distinct artistic identity.
A key part of his process is forging his own Damascus steel, allowing him to control its structure, durability, and intricate patterns. Rather than treating the material as purely functional, he integrates it as a central element of the design - where craftsmanship and artistic expression become inseparable.
Each creation is made with intention: to hold presence, to tell a story, and to stand the test of time.
Visibility
Exhibitions
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2025 A-Gallery annual exhibition
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2024 A-Gallery SURPRICE EGG EXHIBITION
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2022 A-Gallery BODY GLOW II (KEHAKUMA II)
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2021 A-Gallery EDGE (TERA) with Katarina Kotselainen and Jens Claus.
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2020 A-Gallery window exhibition SMALL LUXURY with Katarina Kotselainen.
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2020 A-Gallery Balasov x Vellerind x Kotselainen
Museums
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Kalevipoeg museum, Kääpa, Estonia - sword with Olav Surva
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Saatse Seto museum, Samarina, Estonia – wedding crowns with Olav Surva
Studio
Hidden in the Design District
Studio Tuletuul is located in Tartu’s former industrial district - now an emerging center for design and creative work. Within this evolving environment, the studio reflects both heritage and innovation.
The space itself is expansive and thoughtfully structured, housing a wide range of forging, welding, and fine jewelry tools. Here, traditional blacksmithing techniques meet precise craftsmanship, allowing materials to be shaped across disciplines.
The studio brings together two worlds: fire and force on one side, delicate polishing and exacting detail on the other. Rather than separating processes, they exist in a continuous workflow - where scale and precision, strength and refinement, inform one another.
More than a workshop, Studio Tuletuul is a place of material exploration - where craftsmanship, design, and artistic intent are brought into balance.