NINJA PASANEN
COSTUME DESIGNER

Niina "Ninja" Pasanen is an experienced Finnish costume designer whose career has broadly covered the field of performing arts in Finland, ranging from theatre to films and television series. Her work is known for its ability to create visually significant costume ensembles that support the narrative and add depth to characters across various genres, from children's films to drama.

Versatile Career and Work Focus
Throughout her career, Pasanen has worked in numerous notable productions, such as several popular Risto Räppääjä (Ricky Rapper) films, where she has been able to implement imaginative and colourful costume design. She has also been involved in adult drama productions, including the films Eila (2003) and Eläville ja kuolleille (For the Living and the Dead, 2005), as well as TV series like Klikkaa mua (Click Me, 2011–2014) and Kriittinen piste (Critical Point, 2024). In the theatre world, her distinctive style has been seen in productions by, for example, Ryhmäteatteri.

Recognitions and Awards
Pasanen's professionalism has also been acknowledged with awards and recognitions. She has been nominated for the Jussi Award (the main Finnish film award) for Best Costume Design on multiple occasions: for the films Eila (2003) and Eläville ja kuolleille (2005). The Illusionist award and the grants she has received underscore her respected position in the Finnish film and theatre world, highlighting the importance of her creative work.

Key Characteristics
Pasanen is known as a designer who can work smoothly across a wide range of genres and budgets. In children's films, her ability to create fairytale worlds and distinctive characters has come into its own, while in drama productions, her skill in establishing a credible and stylish whole—one that reflects time and character through small details—is highlighted.