Arabia's art department was established in the 1930s as part of the Finnish ceramics industry. The aim was to use the factory's materials and tools for free artistic creation. The department brought together several of the most prominent artists of the time, including Birger Kaipiainen, Rut Bryk, Toini Muona, Inkeri Leivo, Michael Schilkin, Kyllikki Salmenhaara and Taisto Kaasinen. Their production ranged from everyday utensils to unique works of art, and their work received extensive international attention at world exhibitions. The art department was located on the ninth floor of the Arabia factory, and the artists worked in their own studios. They often came from other departments, such as the industrial or decoration departments, and only a few artists were employed directly by the art department. The Arabia factory developed into a centre for Finnish art ceramics and works created by the artists on the ninth floor can be found in many homes today.