(a.o.t.)
At The Ode To we are always curious to learn more about creativity and artistry, so we asked Mathias Kruse Jørgensen and Kathrine Barbro Bendixen, the creative minds behind (a.o.t.) to tell us a little bit about their life, their art and their sources of inspiration.
What do you call your series of artwork?
– This series of vases is named "Vasi," inspired by Italy, where it all began. "Vasi" means vases in Italian, and this collection delves into the technique of bending and buckling tubes. Drawing from Italy's essence, aluminum, much like pasta, possesses qualities that shift from hardness to softness with heat, influencing our color choices.
What technique have you used?
– Everything we create is handmade, an integral part of our identity. We embrace the notion of doing things unconventionally, what some might consider "the wrong way." This unconventional approach often leads to original and unexpected results.
What inspired you to create the artworks you have made for The Ode To?
– Our artistry is deeply rooted in our fascination with materials. We explore the possibilities of shaping and treating materials with our hands, guided by curiosity and a touch of naivety.
Can you tell us about your background and how you came to be an artist?
– Kathrine's background in product design from Design Academy Eindhoven led to her material research into cow intestines, resulting in a range of objects from lamps to tables. Mathias holds an MA from the Royal College of Art with a practice deeply rooted in material exploration and contemporary research.
How would you describe your art and aesthetics in three words?
– Empathetic, curious, playful.
What we love about (A.O.T.):
(a.o.t.)'s artistry is a vibrant blend of empathy, curiosity, and playfulness. They approach design with a willingness to do things differently, leading to creations that are both original and unexpected. Their "Vasi" collection, inspired by Italy and hand-crafted with care, embodies their unique design philosophy.
