Karl Vilhjálmsson

I was born in Iceland to a Finnish mother and an Icelandic father. In the mid-1990s, I moved to
Finland to study photography at Svenska Konstskolan i Nykarleby. I later continued my studies at
TAIK (the former University of Art and Design Helsinki), where I was admitted in 1998 to
specialize in fine art printmaking and various printing techniques, including polymer gravure, gum
print, and offset printing. I graduated in 2002.
During my studies and in the years following my graduation, I worked part-time as a teacher in
several institutions. I primarily taught black-and-white printing, studio practice, and preparatory
courses designed to equip students for higher education and professional roles requiring
photographic expertise. Teaching has given me valuable insight into guiding students, maintaining
workshop environments, and supporting creative development.
Alongside my teaching career, I worked for many years at Hufvudstadsbladet, initially as a
photographer for their weekly magazine and later as one of the main photographers at the news
desk. Since 2014, I have worked as a freelance photographer, covering news assignments as well as
studio photography, including portraits, food, architecture and product photography.
My broad experience—both educational and professional—has given me strong technical
competence, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work independently as well as
collaboratively. A few years ago, my partner and I purchased an old house in Sipoo, which we are
currently renovating. This project has further strengthened my practical skills and hands-on
approach—qualities that are valuable in a workshop environment.
I am a social and responsible person with a strong work ethic, and I would be highly motivated to
take on the role of Workshop Master. While my Finnish language skills are currently basic, I have
successfully worked and communicated in multilingual environments throughout my career. My
professional life has largely taken place in Swedish- and English-speaking contexts, but I am
actively improving my Finnish and am fully prepared to continue developing my language skills.