One On One Break | DesignBreak

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DesignBreak Elsewhere | Interviewing Kulla Design for the JPost

|May 3, 2012

The first time I came across one of Kulla Design creations was when I bumped into their brilliant Tris Collection. Basically, these girls, Adi Shpigel and Keren Tomer, took plastic shutters and transformed them into the most amazing home accessories. Since then, I’ve been keeping my eyes on them and they don’t disappoint! Working with all the random objects and materials that surround our everyday life isn’t an easy task, but for some reason that’s what works best for these two. Join me while I learn a little bit more about Adi and Keren’s world on my Jerusalem Post series and read my “Doing Design: A recycled party for two” interview right here.

in DesignBreak Elsewhere, Industrial Design, Israeli Designer, One On One Break | Tags: Interview, JPost | No Comments.

One On One Break | Sian Thomas | The Pattern Whisperer

|April 18, 2012

I know i’m a bit behind with my One On One interviews, but all I can say is I have a lineup of pretty amazing designers coming really soon.
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Sian Thomas came to Israel a few months ago and while starting to build her textile empire, she is also trying to master the Hebrew language. As I’m all about spreading the word when it comes to young talent I figured Sian is the right fit for DesignBreak. With one light box and lots of ideas Sian is one of those you should keep an eye on!
She has a lots to share so I’ll pass her the lead.
www.sianelin.com

	I’d love to hear about you, your journey, how it all began.
	I always knew I wanted to do something creative, and felt like there wasn’t any other career path for me from a very young age. After finishing school I went on to study for an Art Foundation course in Wales, which is where I am originally from. It was there that I decided to become a graphic designer, because I knew I wanted to work in design and print, and I felt like it was the most varied and vocational of subjects. At that point in time I didn’t know what surface pattern design was. After my foundation year, I studied Typography and Graphic Design, and History of Art at University. This course taught me to be disciplined and appreciate colour and layout, and it led to my 6 year career in Book design for two top global publishers: Oxford University Press and Penguin, both in the UK. I worked mainly as a children’s book designer where colour is so important, and so it’s here that I developed my love for colour and also typography. During this time, upon seeing the array of pattern and colour in One Year On at New Designers in London, I knew from then on I would make it my goal to make patterns for textiles and print for my career. It took me 2 years to make this a reality, and this is how I came to take the big step of quitting my full time job, and pursuing my business in surface pattern design. I’m lucky enough to spend this year in Israel with my partner who works at the University as a professor, developing my designs, and starting my business. I’m still very interested in book design and do freelance work for Oxford University Press and other clients, and in fact some of my designs reference book design, like my typography patterns.	SianThomas
	As you just moved to Israel, I’d love to hear about your first impression and then what do you like most about it so far?
	My first impressions of Israel are that it’s a welcoming place with less structure and order than I am used to! The people are so open, they have fewer boundaries than British people; for instance strangers on a mountain walk want to be your friend. I also come from a small country, and so in that respect I feel like we have something in common. I’m learning Hebrew which is a lot of fun, but very hard work. The letters seem so alien to me, but I’m so happy that I get an opportunity to learn a new language and use my brain in a different way than normal. The nature here is wonderful – the sea, large gorges and forests, and the desert. Nature is very important to me, and Wales has many nice beaches and mountains, and it’s where I can draw a lot of inspiration from.	SianThomas
	Can you describe your work process for me?
	I normally go out and about and look at things. I see pattern everywhere I go so I always take a camera with me – just in case I like the colour of a sign I see, or the pattern some leaves make on the ground – and I need to document it. The challenge is being able to see how things in reality can turn into a pattern that is arresting, and also commercial. I take objects I have photographed and draw them in a black pen. Most of my patterns are hand-drawn because I love the control it gives me, and I love the more quirky finished effect it has. I then scan in all my images, and start working with them on screen; this is my favourite part of the process. I place motifs on the page and see how they can work together. Once I am happy that the pattern might be going somewhere, I start to add colour in Illustrator. I keep a reference file of colour combinations I like, and I also document them on my pinterest page. Once I have found a colour combination I am happy with, I complete the rest of the pattern to make it into a repeat, so that it could be printed on anything. I keep everything I have ever worked on, incase a motif I have drawn works on a new pattern. I’ve created many new patterns out of old objects I’ve drawn. Sometimes when a pattern isn’t working, it’s best to leave it, and inspiration will come to you when you are least expecting it. Other times patterns just flow and can be achieved in a couple of hours.	SianThomas
	Which materials do you work with?
	I work with a black pen with a 0.3mm tip, and white a4 paper. The pen is the most important part to me, and I have 100s of black ink pens which I enjoy drawing with. I will draw onto any white paper, it doesn’t have to be amazing quality. I also use a light-box a lot, to trace objects I have photographed. I then use a scanner, and Photoshop, Illustrator and Indesign.	SianThomas
	What is the most unusual piece you have ever designed?
	I work with a charity called First Story, who I design book covers for. They are a wonderful organisation, whose aim is to foster creativity and literacy in young people through the medium of writing. I worked on a book called Handwritten, where I involved the students by using their handwriting on the cover. I gave them an image of a fingerprint, and each student traced on top of the lines to produce a fingerprint made out of their own handwriting. It was a very fun and collaborative project. I also got to meet the wonderful children’s author Julie Hearn, and the famous author of the Golden Compass, Philip Pullman.	SianThomas

	What’s next? What is your dream?
	I have a new online shop, selling my designs on greeting cards. And I have just recently been asked to have my designs published in Trend Bible. Next year I hope to exhibit at Tent. My dream is to expand my business and develop cushions, tea-towels, and wallpaper also. I would also love to receive commissions or licensing requests from large companies like Heals, or Selfridges, and one day I’d love to have my own shop. I would also like to influence young people in some way through the medium of design. I’d love to be able to offer my own advice and skills somehow, and help to guide them and answer all the burning questions I had when I was their age.	SianThomas
	I’m curious to know where does your inspiration come from?
	Everywhere! I love objects that you find in cities like lamposts, or signs, or cabling. There is some crazy jumbled up cabling on streetlamps in Israel, which I find beautiful, and hope to make a pattern from one day. I also love folky abstract patterns as well as lettering found anywhere – on signs, on menus, on buildings, on packaging. Everyday objects inspire me too like umbrellas, or pens, or rubbers, or even an old jar.	SianThomas
	Can you tell me which designers inspire you?
	I love Orla Kiely, Leah Duncan,Marimekko, Julia Rothman, Donna Wilson, Abigail Borg, Clare Nicolson and Mini Moderns.	SianThomas
	Can you tell me which web sites and blogs you visit regularly?
	I love Print and Pattern, Tigerprint, Design Sponge, Book By Its Cover, Living etc, Stylist. It’s an amazing web site that presents all kinds of unique shoes. I myself am taking part in it.	SianThomas
	What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
	To stay true to your own style and things you like. The lovely owner of La Vague Doree told me that during the design process not to worry about what other people think, because everyone has a different opinion – and your style will become confused if you take it all to heart. He also told me to keep a small box of things that inspire me and not to show it to anyone, even my Mum! He told me not to let it get too full, because your style and preferences need to stay clear, and to give it a clear out every now and then as your style develops.	SianThomas
	If you had an extra hour each day what would you do with it?
	I’d spend more time looking at and producing patterns!	SianThomas

in Graphic Design, One On One Break, Textile Design, World Break | Tags: British Break, Illustrations, Patterns, Prints | 2 Comments.

DesignBreak Elsewhere | Interviewing Iris Zohar for the JPost

|April 9, 2012

If you are one of those people who know how to enjoy a cup of hot chocolate, there is a big chance that you bumped into one of Iris Zohar‘s hug mugs. Yep, Iris is the one responsible for Max Brenner‘s super lovable mugs. The thing is, Iris has this unique ability to do it all, from designing for some of the biggest companies in Israel to giving back to society with her involvement with minorities and the less fortunate.
Join me while I dig into Iris’ intriguing world at my Jerusalem Post series.
You can read my “Doing Design: Just a little patience” interview right here.

in DesignBreak Elsewhere, Industrial Design, Israeli Designer, One On One Break | Tags: Interview, JPost | No Comments.

DesignBreak Elsewhere | Interviewing Ori Ben Zvi for the JPost

|March 7, 2012

The is something quite special about people who deal with sustainable design. Ori Ben-Zvi and his Ubico Studio made me want to dig in and learn a bit more about the creation process.
Get a behind the scenes pass to Ori and his one of a kind recycled creations in my Jerusalem Post series.
You can read my “Doing Design: One man’s trash is another man’s sofa” interview right here.

in DesignBreak Elsewhere, Industrial Design, Israeli Designer, One On One Break | Tags: Interview, JPost | No Comments.

DesignBreak Elsewhere | Interviewing Asaf Weinbroom for the JPost

|February 12, 2012

Asaf Weinbroom. Asaf Weinbroom. Asaf Weinbroom. I’m a huge fan of this mega talented designer, hands down!
It was just a matter of time till I had the chance to ask him all these questions that I’ve been meaning to ask for a long long time.
Oh, with all the excitement I didn’t mention that he is an industrial designer who devotes every single day to design the most brilliant wooden light fixtures you have ever seen. If you grew up watching Pinocchio as a child you should definitely join me at my Jerusalem Post series and read “Doing Design: A modern Geppetto”, my interview with Asaf.

in DesignBreak Elsewhere, Israeli Designer, One On One Break | Tags: Interview, JPost, Lighting | No Comments.

One On One Break | Shani Bar | Walking on Sunshine

|January 24, 2012

Is it normal to have a designer crush…? Either way, the honest truth is I’m obsessed with Shani Bar’s shoes since day one! There is no nicer or gentler way to say it and my multiple posts can back me up! The way Shani grows her business with her own two hands and the help of her loving partner is inspiring. The best part is she doesn’t even think about slowing down. With a brand new store in Berlin, I’m sure you’re gonna run into some more of them around the world in no time.
I can go on and on but I better leave the talking for sweet Shani.
So… here we go!
{Photos by Roni Cna’ani}
www.shanibar.com

	I’d love to hear about you, your journey, how it all began.
	It all began in a small studio in my old apartment after i graduate the academy of art and design Bezalel. i was experiencing in creating my first own collection by doing all the process of manufacturing by my myself. it was a wonderful experiences in which i learn a lot about shoes. the reaction was amazing and i decided to start my own shoe line professorially.	ShaniBar
	Can you describe your work process for me?
	It all began in a small studio in my old apartment after I graduated from the Bezalel Academy of Arts and Design. I was creating my first collection and doing all the manufacturing by my myself. It was a wonderful experience in which I learned a lot about shoe making. The reaction from people was amazing and so I decided to start my own shoe line professionally.	ShaniBar
	Which materials do you work with?
	I mainly work with leather materials. It’s my favorite and it doesn’t stop surprising me with It’s ability to change and take new forms.	ShaniBar
	What is the most unusual piece you have ever designed?
	I designed a shoe for an art expo. The inspiration for it came from the world of carnivorous plants. The name of the piece was called “Venus trap”. the shoe is divided into two parts, in the front it’s a simple pump in nude color, and in the back the form continues into a shape of a deep red flower that seduces the feet to get inside the shoe. When the foot slides in the shoe transforms it shape.	ShaniBar

	What’s next? What is your dream?
	After I opened my first store in europe and sold to exclusive boutiques, my goal is to expand and open more brand stores over seas.	ShaniBar
	I’m curious to know where does your inspiration come from?
	My inspiration come from every day life, usually from things that are overlooked by most of us such as nature, city life, movies, art and so on.	ShaniBar
	Can you tell me which designers inspire you?
	I like Alexander Mcqueen‘s designs very much. I like the way he executes and translates the theme he chooses into a brilliant piece of fashion art. I also liked how that he handmade the details in each piece and above all, his amazing and unique ability to bring it to life on the catwalk.	ShaniBar
	Can you tell me which web sites and blogs you visit regularly?
	These days there are a lot of blogs and websites full of inspiration, one of my favorite is the Virtual Shoe Museum. It’s an amazing web site that presents all kinds of unique shoes. I myself am taking part in it.	ShaniBar
	What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
	The best advice I received was to take long breaks from work and open my self to new experiences. It influenced my work and well being.	ShaniBar
	If you had an extra hour each day what would you do with it?
	I would like to give more hours at the animal shelter I am currently volunteering at.	ShaniBar

in Fashion, Israeli Designer, One On One Break | Tags: Accessories, Leather, Shoes | No Comments.

DesignBreak Elsewhere | Interviewing Rona Meyuchas for the JPost

|January 4, 2012

Just like that, out of the blue, I discovered Rona Meyuchas’s world. Immediately I knew I’ll find the right time and place to get to know her up close and personal. Rona is one of those designers who seems like they can do it all! From light fixtures to lamps, from office accessories to home accessories. You name it, she designed it.
Join me while I explore behind the scenes of the “Kukka” brand in my Jerusalem Post series.
You can read my “Doing Design: Coming Home” interview right here.

in DesignBreak Elsewhere, Industrial Design, Israeli Designer, One On One Break | Tags: Interview, JPost | No Comments.

One On One Break | NORITAMY | Love at First Geometric Sight

|December 15, 2011

If I have to pick only one designer, whom I want to adopt as my new best friend, it’s Elinor Avni, one half of NORITAMY. Well, my next new year’s resolution is coming up, so maybe if I work on it real hard, it will come true ;)
Now seriously, as you all know I’m a massive fan of Elinor and her mother Tammar (there are many posts to prove it). When Elinor invited my to their studio and showed me their latest “Branches” collection I had a hard time breathing… I immediately began holding, turning, wearing and hugging every single piece. I can keep on drooling all day long, so here is Elinor!
{Photos by Kfir Ziv}
www.noritamy.com

	I’d love to hear about you, your journey, how it all began.
	Both Tammar (my mom) and I come from artistic backgrounds: Tammar was a painter-sculptor and I was an interior architect for almost 8 years. We always worked with our hands so it was just a matter of time before we turned to jewelry. I guess we each brought a bag of materials and techniques from our previous journeys.	ElinorAvni
	Can you describe your work process for me?
	We design new pieces on a daily basis – most of them turn into collections, the ones that don’t usually end up as “one of a kind”. We create 3D models of each piece from the actual material and wear them for a while before selling them. We wear the pieces wherever we go and most of the time clients start pre-ordering even before we start selling.	ElinorAvni
	I’d love to here about your collaboration with your mom. How does it work and who does what?
	I can’t say we have a distinct separation of roles in terms of designing, it’s always a collaboration. However Tammar is in charge of the manufacturing (all hand made in-house) and I am in charge of marketing, dealing with buyers, press, clients… We like to be there for our clients, they expect to see us when they visit our workshop/store and it is fascinating to get to know each one in person. We have clients that have been coming for the past 5 years and they know that they will always find the perfect jewel which will match their personality-size-style.	ElinorAvni
	And what about your collaborations with other designers?
	We love to collaborate with other designers. Two of our latest collaborations were with Camilla Wellton, a Swedish fashion designer and the world renown fashion designer Gideon Oberson and his daughter Karen whom we accessorized for their TLV Fashion Week show. We love the challenge of creating new pieces and matching them to clothing. We really enjoy working with other people, both sides learn from one another and everybody wins.	ElinorAvni
	Which materials do you work with?
	We don’t limit ourselves to a particular material, we like to keep our options open. Up until now we worked with silver, gold, brass, stainless polymers, leather, wood, silk, stones… and more. We have some exciting new ideas waiting to happen. We inspire to also design jewelry, cloths, handbags and shoes. We are so full of ideas and we have a lot of fun together.	ElinorAvni
	What is the most unusual piece you have ever designed?
	The most unusual piece we designed were two sculptures we carved in wood for a German Client, who wanted to put them on his desk. It turned out great.	ElinorAvni

	What’s next? What is your dream?
	New collections, new places in the world to sell and visit… I actually like the thought of not knowing what’s next, then again, who really does?!	ElinorAvni
	I’m curious to know where does your inspiration come from?
	We get inspired by abseloutly everything. Zaha Hadid‘s buildings, ARTechnic / Architect (a Japanese firm), fashion, art, nature, the weather… Because I come from a background in architecture It’s a major source of inspiration.	ElinorAvni
	Can you tell me which web sites and blogs you visit regularly?
	Well lets see, Jak & Jil, Stephanie La Cava, PachaDesign (a blog that wrote about us a while back and now I visit regularly), Bazek Alim (not really design related but inspiring, so appetizing and filled with amazing photos) and many more… Every day I find new and exciting blogs.	ElinorAvni
	What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
	The best advice I received was from my husband who told me to go with my gut, stay focused and do what I do best. Thats what helped me the most when we started out designing very large pieces that were not acceptable back then. But we stuck with it and the reactions were fantastic.	ElinorAvni
	If you had an extra hour each day what would you do with it?
	Being a mother of three (a hands-on mom or as they say “soccer-mom”) and running a successful business, I would say that if I had an extra hour I would probably get some sleep :)	ElinorAvni

in Fashion, Israeli Designer, One On One Break | Tags: Accessories, Jewelry, Minimalistic, Nature | No Comments.

DesignBreak Elsewhere | Interviewing David Shefa for the JPost

|December 12, 2011

Kozos, Kozos, Kozos. I’m so in love with you all.
I first wrote about David Shefa’s adorable creatures a while back but when I had the chance to interview him for the JPost I couldn’t resist.
Join me while I explore the land of the Kozos in my Jerusalem Post series.
You can read my “Doing Design: The Pied Piper goes Wall-E” interview right here.

in DesignBreak Elsewhere, Industrial Design, Israeli Designer, One On One Break | Tags: Interview, JPost | No Comments.

One On One Break | Reason To Be Pretty | Blossom Moment

|December 7, 2011

Nophar Haimovitz aka “Reason To Be Pretty” goes by the saying “there is always a reason to be pretty”. Don’t know what about you, but I definitely buy that!
When Nophar first wrote me, it was long after I tried to reach her… I guess she sensed me looking for her from the other side of the world ;)
I fell in love with her colorful and extra sophisticated world. Then again, I’m a sucker for statement pieces. You know I am!
Give it up for Nophar and her dreamy neck pieces. I’m sure you gonna enjoy the ride!

www.reasontobepretty.com

	I’d love to hear about you, your journey, how it all began.
	As every average Israeli, I came out of the army with very little knowledge about what I wanted to do with myself. I went to study interior design, hoping I’ll end up in building restoration. I didn’t like it, took a year off and started doing mosaic. Than, I decided to study jewelry and accessory design, I signed in to Bezalel, where I actually wanted to study, and to Shenkar “just in case”. By than I was 25. I got into both, and it suddenly hit me that I really want to study fashion at Shenkar, as it is one of the best in the world. To be honest, the only one surprised about me going to study fashion design was… me. Everyone else always thought that’s what I should do (but neglected to tell me). During my Shenkar years I have met a really cute and talented student in the industrial design department. We got married while I was still in school. So Shenkar ended up to be a VERY smart decision… Right after I graduated, we followed our dream and took a plane to ‘America’. We ended up in NYC (“Concrete jungle where dreams are made of”), that was 4 years ago and we’re still in love with this city. During that time, I interned and worked in the fashion industry. I took classes in embroideries, embellishments and different couture techniques, participated in international embroidery competition and started my own line.	NopharHaimovitz
	Can you describe your work process for me?
	It varies by collection (my neck pieces collection has a 3 sub-collections). With my floral collection (which is a “one of a kind”), I start by looking at my materials, deciding on a color and take out everything within this color combination, laying it all on my table, than I dye fringe or flowers, sculpt the silk flowers, embroider and sew all the components together. I don’t have a specific order in mind, I have an idea about what I want and play with the materials, but usually everything just somehow comes together. Than there are the fringe and chain necklaces, these are more simplified version of the floral necklaces. In general, I create from an eclectic array of materials and color and my desk is a mess at the end of the day…	NopharHaimovitz
	Which materials do you work with?
	I work with everything; fringe, silk flowers, crystals, metal chains and components, beads, fabrics, ribbon, wool… However, I would never work with leather or real fur.	NopharHaimovitz
	What is the most unusual piece you have ever designed?
	I participated in an international embroidery contest in which embroidered a whole army style jacket (made from real army shirts), it took me 4 months. That was crazy! I also have another piece, its an embroidered top that I have made for one of my projects during my school year. It was inspired by Kawaii and the whole Japanese cuteness culture. It’s just a basic wife-beater top, completely covered with bits and pieces of fabrics, crystals, toys and more. I think this item was the one that opened my eyes and mind, made me realize who I am as a designer and what I’d really like to do, which is fabulously pretty things.	NopharHaimovitz

	What’s next? What is your dream?
	I just launched my website with the new neck pieces and a brand new line of feminine and graceful silk dress. Lately I also began selling my designs in boutiques around the world and will be opening my own online store soon. The dream is the usual dream, to be able to sell my line in more stores, see a celebrity wear one of my pieces, be featured on Vogue. But basically, my dream is to have people share my love for absolutely pretty things, get my vision by wearing my pieces and to be able to keep doing what I love, where I love to do it.	NopharHaimovitz
	I’m curious to know where does your inspiration come from?
	I’m obsessed with the color Pink and with flowers, everything blooming fascinates me. I’m trying to recreate for my clients that same feeling I have when I go to the botanical gardens and see a magnificent Magnolia tree or look at my rose bush (pink of course). Also, I collect materials such as interesting beads, flowers, buttons, fabrics, bows and lots of embroidery books. By looking at them I get inspired.	NopharHaimovitz
	Can you tell me which designers inspire you?
	Well, of course the houses of Chanel and Lanvin, they know pretty, grace, feminine, fabrics, I want to cry when I see Chanel’s Haute Couture Collections. The fabrication and embellishments are to die for! I’m also obsessed with Christian Lacroix. All the embroideries and couture embellishments, the shape of the garments and layering… His sketches are insane, so simple and intense, so beautiful and full of color.	NopharHaimovitz
	What about some web sites and blogs that you visit regularly?
	I go through many, I’m a google fanatic. I like all the street style blogs such as The Sartorialist or Street Peeper . I go over the items at NotCouture, where you see the new and cool stuff. I love Style Bubble, Susie Bubble has excellent style, I adore everything she wears! But basically, since I live in NYC, my best bet is just to walk down the street, look at the people and get inspired.	NopharHaimovitz
	What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
	I never actually heard it as an advice but my parents made sure we (my brothers and I) will always follow our dreams. They always say “you should follow your dreams and everything else will work itself out.”	NopharHaimovitz
	If you had an extra hour each day what would you do with it?
	To be honest, I have a very good time management skills. Before meeting my husband, I used to give up sleeping and work 24/7. He taught me how to do everything during the day and still get my beauty sleep at night. But, if and when I have more time on my hands, I would definitely learn how to knit and learn Spanish and Arabic.	NopharHaimovitz

in Fashion, Israeli Designer, One On One Break | Tags: Accessories, Fabric, Flowers, Shenkar | No Comments.

One On One Break | Ruta Reifen | The Metal Princes

|November 17, 2011

Belive it or not, my first post ever was about Ruta Reifen’s graduation project. I remember how amazed I was starring at her “Waiting for Godot” for a very long time. A lot has changed since then. Ruta is on her way to become a jewelry rock star in the city of all possibilities NYC and me… well you know, I’m here.
The one thing that hasn’t change is Ruta’s ability to treat metal as her own bread and butter. This girl with the big bright eyes and the most radient face is my next One On One Break.

www.rutareifen.com

	I’d love to hear about you, your journey, how it all began.
	After high school my family and I moved to London for a year. I studied in acting school full-time, theatre was and still is my first love. I decided to take evening beginners Jewelry making class with Liz Collins at Central Saint Martins College of Art. I was 17 at the time and had no idea what a great opportunity this would be. I immediately fell head over heels for the craft of silversmithing- I knew then and there that I belong at a jewelry bench with saw blades, files, torches, wax carving tools, drill bits, hammers, burrs, and most importantly METAL. It was so great, I used to sneak into classes that I wasn’t registered for just to keep working. So I ended up at Shenkar College of Engineering and Design and majored in Jewelry Design. Immediately after I continued my academic journey at the Rhode Island School of Design in Providence RI, to get my MFA.	RutaReifen
	Can you describe your work process for me?
	My process is so specific; I can’t resist it even though I’ve tried. Before I embark on a new or continue a body of work, I have many sleepless nights. I cannot sleep because I’m constantly thinking about the work. When I approach my bench, I let the mind rest and my intuition completely takes over. The aesthetic quality of my work is incredibly important to me and composition is everything!!! Maker hat is on, and the work begins.	RutaReifen
	Which materials do you work with?
	Primarily metal, this material never ceases to challenge me as a maker. Gold, Silver, Copper they are elements- isn’t that crazy and fabulous? I always use one more material; this is where the materiality and crafting of the work become a part of its conceptual content. I love combining earthy substances with metal, they contrast as well as compliment each other. Recently I’ve been using Auto-motive paint with metal; I use it in a way so they enhance each other.	RutaReifen
	What is the most unusual piece you have ever designed?
	I carved a huge log pendant out of wax and converted it with metal. The shift to a larger scale was a big step out of my comfort zone. Making a sculptural object that completely disregarded the body was a great exercise for me.	RutaReifen
	I’d love to hear the story behind your MA final project.
	My MFA thesis work was a commentary to my observation on how we, as a modern western society, due to mass digital media, are exposed to sights we would have hardly come across otherwise in our daily lives. In my crafting process, I mimic the way I perceive the natural world rather than its appearance, in the form of flowery asymmetrical compositions.	RutaReifen

	What’s next? What is your dream?
	I am now working on a new collection still dealing with the idea of “hyper reality”. I want to focus even more on wearable jewelry pieces. Little exaggerated treasures from nature- or are they?	RutaReifen
	I’m curious to know where does your inspiration come from?
	I research, raise questions, and write; my work is always responding or related in some form to social phenomena.	RutaReifen
	Can you tell me which designers inspire you?
	Every artist/designer is smart in a different way. I am lucky to have so many talented friends and so I guess it is my friends that are most Inspiring.	RutaReifen
	What about some web sites and blogs that you visit regularly?
	I promise this is the honest truth- DesignBreak is my favorite, you are so design savvy and you feature such good work it is a pleasure to read your words!! I also go on ‘wearable art’ occasionally, Design Milk, Design*Sponge, and of course- Anthropologie.	RutaReifen
	What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
	Two Women that are a true inspiration to me, RI based Jewelry artist and educator Noam Elyashiv said to me a few years ago: Don’t be afraid, just keep working! It made me realize that I shouldn’t waste my time on negative energy. And Biba Shutz a NY based Jewelry Artist and Metal sculpture said to me recently: If there are mice in your studio, sleep on the table! The Biba way saying be rigorous and committed.	RutaReifen
	If you had an extra hour each day what would you do with it?
	Work in my studio!!! (- am I a workaholic?)	RutaReifen
	And finally, please do share something random or quirky about yourself!
	I hate cooking with a passion. I miss my Mom’s cooking so much!!!	RutaReifen

in Fashion, Israeli Designer, One On One Break, StudentBreak | Tags: Accessories, Concrete, Jewelry, Metal | 1 Comment.

DesignBreak Elsewhere | Interviewing Nir Meiri for the JPost

|November 6, 2011

Nir Meiri is no stranger around here. I guess that’s why I got excited when he agreed to be interviewed by me for my Jerusalem Post series. There is something quite magical about getting a look behind the scenes.
You can read my “Doing Design: City living with dreams of nature” interview right here.

in DesignBreak Elsewhere, Industrial Design, Israeli Designer, One On One Break | Tags: Interview, JPost | No Comments.

DesignBreak Elsewhere | Interviewing Gurit Magen for the JPost

|September 7, 2011

My second interview for The Jerusalem Post just aired.
Gurit Magen, the girl behind Junktion People, is one of those designers who can turn just about any random junk into rad product.
You can read my “Doing Design: One man’s trash is another man’s treasure” interview right here.

in DesignBreak Elsewhere, Industrial Design, Israeli Designer, One On One Break | Tags: Interview, JPost | No Comments.

DesignBreak Elsewhere | Interview with Meirav Barzilay for the JPost

|August 14, 2011

I forgot to share with you some exciting news! Since the beginning of August I’ll be interviewing some of my favorite young Israeli industrial designers for The Jerusalem Post. So, once a month an interview will be coming your way.
First in line is Meirav Barzilay, a young designer, who keeps amazing me!
You can read my “Doing Design: Crafting her way through life” interview right here.

in DesignBreak Elsewhere, Industrial Design, Israeli Designer, One On One Break | Tags: Interview, JPost | 2 Comments.

One On One Break | Natan Elkanovich | Dot By Dot

|June 23, 2011

Natan Elkanovich. A man of many secrets. By day he works at some of the most prestigious TV sets as a costume designer and on his own time he creates some of the most breath taking drawings I have ever seen. To tell you the truth, I fully understood the extent of his work when I saw this wonder at his studio. There is nothing like it. A picture with a texture is not a common thing where I come from… Natan knows how to draw you into his artistic world in no time, I’ll let him do the talking.
{A DesignBreak by Sivan Askayo}

www.natan-art.com

	I’d love to hear about you, your journey, how it all began.
	I was born in Moldova (former USSR) in 1966 and migrated to Israel with my family when I was 10. I was drawn to sketching and painting from an early age and all I’ve learned is self taught. I studied Fashion Design at the Shenkar College of Engineering and Design and after my graduation (1993) I began my career as a costume designer for movies and TV productions. At the same time I developed my unique painting techniques and gradually, my childhood hobby turned into a full time career as an International Pop Art artist, who sells his art and exhibits in Israel, USA and Europe.	NatanElkanovich
	Can you describe your work process for me?
	I base my paintings on photo’s, whether it’s me who took them or other photographers. After picking the photo, I make some arrangements on it, until I’m satisfied with the result and then I draw it on canvas. When it’s ready, I apply my technique on the drawing. The technique I’ve developed creates a 3D texture on the canvas. I mix kinds of plastic materials blended with silicone and acrylic, then I sprinkle it on the surface. After it dries out, the material becomes very rigid and firmly attached to the canvas. Looking at me working, may resemble a pastry chef in the process of decorating a cake. During my childhood I spent a lot of time in our kitchen with my mom. In the process of painting, besides brushes, I use kitchen tools to apply my technique with. I guess my deep roots in the kitchen explain that.	NatanElkanovich
	Which materials do you work with?
	Aside from silicone and acrylic, I also attach Swarovski Elements to some of my paintings, combined with all kinds of glitters. This adds a great deal of GLAM to the final result.	NatanElkanovich
	What is the most unusual piece you have ever painted?
	I think one of the most unusual piece I did was by a request of a gentleman who asked me to paint his beloved Peg dog on a huge 100 square feet canvas, with the addition of a shining collar ornamented with Swarovski Elements.	NatanElkanovich
	What’s next? What is your dream?
	I’m working non-stop, and I hope it will never end. I’m open to expand new horizons. Recently, Laneus, an art rug company, approached me with the idea of making artistic rugs based on my paintings. We launched our collaboration with a Marilyn Monroe rug, which is exhibited these days in a rugs exhibition in Germany. I’d love to do more in this field and would love to see my paintings on home décor products. My dream is to go on painting as much as I can. To bring more beauty to the world. To be a messenger of love through my paintings. Of course, a solo exhibition at the MoMA or at Tate Modern will be warmly accepted.	NatanElkanovich
	I’m curious to know where does your inspiration come from?
	In a practical level, I’m inspired by a lot of things. I’m very curious person and interested in a lot of fields beside art. I leave my eyes and mind open and ideas sometimes come from little things I see, that have nothing in common with art. People intrigue me and at the same time inspire me. That’s why I paint mostly humans.	NatanElkanovich
	Can you tell me which painters inspire you?
	A lot… Van-Gogh, Pissarro, Monet, Michelangelo, Durer, Escher, Dali, Picasso, Lichtenstein, Raushenberg, and many more. Visualy, I’m inspired mostly by Andy Warhol, and with my 3D texture technique I’m moving this visual forward. At first glance my work is comparable to his, but I would like to point out that unlike Andy Warhol, who painted celebrities in order to reflect for the masses their shallowness by pursuing fame and famous personas, my paintings all come from great appreciation and personal gratitude to the painted figure, and not out of an attempt to educate or preach any message other than the message of love and beauty.	NatanElkanovich
	What about some web sites and blogs that you visit regularly?
	I love cinema and I visit IMDb and Box Office Prophets regularly. I don’t read newspapers, so I get updated with the current events on the internet. I love web sites where I can get updated about what is going on in the fields of art, history, music, science, sport and many more.	NatanElkanovich
	If you had an extra hour each day what would you do?
	I`d probably spend it on something I usually don`t have the time for, like watching TV. I can imagine myself watching an episode of LOST on every 25th. hour of the day. I never had the time to see it and many other great series and films shown on TV.	NatanElkanovich
	And finally, What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
	An old friend told me twenty years ago: First chance never comes a second time. I took it as a motto for my life and I’m open to everything that life is bringing, if something comes my way, I go forward towards it with open arms and without fear. I hate the feeling of frustration you get, when you don’t act immediately when opportunity presents itself, and you feel that you missed something good because you were too shy or afraid to approach it. Following this advice, Ive trained myself to ignore fear and shyness and to take every first chance that comes my way and make the best of it. Life is much more joyful, interesting and full of surprises this way.	NatanElkanovich