Amanda Gunawan offers new which means to the phrase “multi-hyphenate”: the maker-architect-builder-entrepreneur-designer-runner has an unbelievable capability to channel constant imaginative and prescient throughout her many tasks. Founding Principal of the LA structure agency OWU (Solely Manner Is Up), Gunawan just lately launched an aesthetically-aligned assortment of ceramics and homewares, OWIU items. It’s, no shock, a phenomenal assortment – consultant of Gunawan’s nature-oriented tackle modernism.
OWIU items
It’s a product of her distinctive upbringing: she was born in Indonesia, grew up in Singapore and now lives in California, the place she attracts inspiration from these numerous but harmonious influences. On this week Milkshakewe requested her particularly how the aesthetic tradition of Japan, one other reference, manifests itself in her apply and in her work: “This can be a very loaded query for me – clearly I’m very impressed by Japanese tradition and Japan as an entire, she says. “I’d say it’s their ardour and their dedication to craftsmanship that actually impresses me. Somebody informed me a narrative about [this] as soon as – for instance a Japanese individual works in a espresso store. They don’t seem to be attempting to turn out to be the supervisor of the espresso store. They simply attempt to make the perfect cup of espresso they’ll ever make. And I discover that so particular.” This side can be mirrored within the design of her ceramic work: “I’m very impressed by the tradition of present giving [within Japanese culture],” she says. There is a sure depth to it, the place the present represents the context through which the individual receives the present. And I like that as a result of it means there is a feeling related to this specific object. That is precisely what we’re attempting to to realize with OWIU Items. We are attempting to say that an object ought to have extra than simply an aesthetic enchantment to somebody – it also needs to have a sentimental connection.”
Additionally on this week’s Milkshake, Amanda shares exceptionally related recommendation for individuals who need to get all of it achieved – once we requested her about her secret, she informed us that the fact is a bit more sophisticated than it appears. How does she handle all of it? With assist. “I’ve acquired a implausible group to assist with this, so I am not doing this alone,” she says. “Furthermore, I’m not going for one hundred pc. I by no means do – me [usually] goal for 80%. My work, or my life, is a marathon. And that is why I’ve to hurry issues up a bit.
For extra from Amanda, tune in! To see extra of Amanda and OWIU’s work, click on right here!
Diana Ostrom, who has written for Wallpaper, Inside Design, ID, The Wall Avenue Journal, and different shops, can be the writer of Faraway Locations, a journey e-newsletter.
Milkshake, the primary common collection from DMTV (Design Milk TV), shakes up the standard interview format by asking designers, creatives, educators and trade professionals to randomly choose interview questions from their favourite bowl or barrel. Throughout their candid conversations you not solely get a glimpse into their private dwelling collections, but additionally precious insights into their work, life and passions.
