Toikka gained recognition for his exceptional glassware designs created for the Finnish design company Iittala. Initially trained in ceramics at the University of Art and Design Helsinki, he later ventured into glass design. Some of his most famous works include the Kastehelmi and Flora tableware from the 1960s, as well as the Pioni and Krouvi collections from the 1970s.
In addition to his glassware creations, Toikka is renowned for his "Birds by Toikka" series, which he designed for Iittala. From 1972 until his passing in 2019, Toikka crafted over 400 mouth-blown glass birds. While he initially worked at the Nuutajärvi glassworks in Urjala, his designs are currently produced at the Iittala glass factory in Hämeenlinna.
Toikka also found success in other creative endeavors. He collaborated as a stage and costume designer, often partnering with Finnish director Lisbeth Landefort, and even illustrated her autobiography. In his later years, he was associated with productions by the Finnish National Theatre and the Finnish National Opera. Additionally, Toikka occasionally contributed textile designs to the Marimekko collections.
Throughout his career, Toikka received numerous accolades, including the Lunning Prize in 1970, the Finnish State Award for Crafts and Design in 1975, the Pro Finlandia Medal in 1980, the Kaj Franck Design Prize in 1992, the Finland Prize in 2000, and the Prins Eugen Medal in 2001.
