Karin Björquist (1927-2018) grew up in Säffle in Sweden. She started working as an economist and accountant, and decided to study art and ceramics doing evening classes. In 1950, Karin Björquist applied to the Gustavsberg porcelain factory where she was employed as a designer and artist until 1994. From 1981 to 1986, she was the artistic leader of the company. She was well known for her utility products, and designed a number of glazed plant pots and dishes intended for home environments and also public places.
In 1961, she and the architect Kjell Abramson were given the assignment of designing the Mariatorget underground station in Stockholm. Its walls were clad in ceramic tiles in shades of burnt umber and terracotta. Karin Björquist was appointed to create ceramic interiors for two more larger projects in Stockholm: the new Riksbank building designed by architect Peter Celsings in 1976 at Brunkebergstorg, and the restoration of Sturebadet in 1988.
