Today, many of us create our own work, both at work and in our free time. Maybe it’s because we find satisfaction in creating with our hands. Maybe it’s about making our very own objects to decorate our homes and walls. Whatever the case, one thing is certain – there is no shortage of inspiration.
– I think social media plays a big role. I’m thinking of phenomena such as the climate club, the flower petition and others. These are movements that have spread extremely quickly via social media and are undoubtedly here to stay. That’s why I don’t think we should talk about them in terms of trends. It’s about an emerging general awareness, especially among the younger generation,” says Svante Öquist, a freelance journalist and home and garden inspirational speaker.
Why do you think we are engaged in creation right now?
– Of course, it has a lot to do with the public debate on sustainability. I think more and more of us realize what mass consumption stands for and what consequences it has – especially for the environment, and thus also for animals and humans. We realize that we are consuming ourselves to death and are looking for more continuity and permanence in the things we have around us.
What do we gain from doing crafts?
– Having made something with your own hands gives you a tremendous sense of satisfaction, which in itself becomes a driving force to continue. Self-creation is a true luxury for all the senses.
What crafts do you think we do most?
– I have no static evidence for it – but my feeling says wood, metal and textile crafts. Things we all learn once in school, but maybe not even thought about that we can practice in adulthood. But also ceramics, carving and not least gardening – as if anything is a creation.
Are you involved in any form of creativity yourself?
– I love, and have always loved, crafts. Crafts were one of my best subjects at school. If I were to choose a career today, I would undoubtedly become a cabinetmaker.
Which tools for creativity are most important in your home?
– The sewing machine, a green enameled 60’s machine, massively heavy and pure engineering – runs like clockwork and will, with the right service, always do so. My mora knife, which I always have with me. A good quality screwdriver. A toolbox, which is easily accessible, with the most necessary tools. And a good saw, likewise there – of good quality.
Favorite items in the cupboards at home?
– I have a series of hand-turned ceramic vessels – bowls, plates and cups – made by Ingegerd Råman. By chance I found them at an online auction. They are a real treasure, not least because they are utility items, intended for everyday use. And we do! Things become more beautiful when they are used – not locked away in cupboards.
Do you have a favorite ceramicist, designer or craftsman?
– I have one name that fits all three categories – Signe Persson-Melin. She has incredible breadth – without ever compromising on her uncompromising aesthetic. Always thinking form with function. Never form for form’s sake. Although many of her works are produced in factories and in large series, there is always a sense of craftsmanship in the design language. The mouth-blown glasses for Kosta/Boda, cutlery, glass and porcelain from Boda Nova and Design House Stockholm, the salt-glazed ceramics for her own brand Portugal, porcelain and teapots for Svenskt Tenn, pots and serving vessels for Gustavsberg – without exaggeration, I like it all!
Text: Amanda Blennborn, freelance journalist
Photo: Kosta Boda, Private
