about me

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I’m Saara Obele, a Helsinki-based visual artist and designer working across illustration, graphic design and pattern design, alongside custom tattoo work.

While these disciplines serve different purposes, they share the same foundation: clear visual language, a thoughtful process and strong attention to detail. My work is rooted in visual storytelling, combining structure with intuition and careful craftsmanship.

I hold a Master’s degree in Visual Communication and Pattern Design from Aalto University and have worked on a wide range of projects, from children’s books and editorial illustration to visual identities, surface design and commissioned work for brands and private clients. My background in illustration strongly informs both my design and tattoo practice, particularly in composition, line and narrative clarity.

Each service is offered separately, but all are connected by a consistent artistic approach focused on meaning, durability and visual coherence.

Selected publications

Poika ja hame, Jani Toivola, Otava, 2021
Pikkuisen pihan porukka, S&S, 2021
Tarot – Tieto meissä, Like, 2022
Poika ja perhostunne, Jani Toivola, Otava, 2022
Poika ja rohkeusloikka, Jani Toivola, Otava, 2023
Lolan suuri salaisuus, Lola Odusoga, WSOY, 2023
Mimi ja mörkö, Maryam Razavi, Otava, 2025

Education

Master of Arts (Art and Design), Aalto University, 2023
Bachelor of Arts (Art and Design), Aalto University, 2020
Minor studies in Illustration and Pattern Design

Professional roles

Board Member, Finnish Illustration Association / Kuvittajat ry, 2021–2023

Visual storytelling is at the core of everything I do, whether working with print, pattern or skin.

Enquiries

If you’d like to get in touch regarding illustration, graphic design, pattern design or tattoo work, feel free to reach out. I’m happy to discuss ideas and projects in more detail.