Viivi Prokofjev is Graphic Designer of the Year 2026

The Graphic Designer of the Year award is given for meritorious work in the field of visual communication design or other activities that raise the profile and prestige of the field in Finland. The award is presented annually by Grafia, an organization of visual communication and design professionals. 

“Viivi Prokofjev combines intuitive visual thinking and craftsmanship in a way that makes each project a thoughtful and sensual whole. At a time when visual production is becoming automated and superficial, Prokofjev's work reminds us of the importance of materials and details. Her designs show that true quality comes from care, a willingness to experiment, and the fact that every solution exudes the presence of its creator," the selection committee said. 

Prokofjev is credited with daring to question the traditions of form, typography, and printing in a thrillingly surprising way, and with a bold, innovative touch that combines carnivalesque elements with the confidence of a true professional. She combines the new and the old, painting and typography in the collage-like illustrations.

“My mind is constantly working. Ideas come quickly, thoughts condense and become more rational under the pressure of the work process”, Prokofjev describes her working.

Prokofjev works as Art Director at Suomen Kuvalehti magazine and also as a freelancer. She studied visual communication design at Aalto University. Prokofjev has received numerous awards in graphic design, including in the Vuoden Huiput (Top of the Year) and Kauneimmat kirjat (Most beautiful books) competitions. The Klaus Maunuksela Manual she designed won the Kauneimmat kirjat competition in 2022. 

The Graphic Designer of the Year 2026 award exhibition will be held at Grafia's Luonnos Gallery from October 3 to November 22, 2026, at Uudenmaankatu 13, Helsinki. The exhibition will be open to the public.