73
art of barrel tying by our Palatinate partner . It is this respectful , fruitful and inspiring collaboration that makes the high quality of our products possible and leads to the unique design MAOMI stands for .
So creative work is always best done in a team ?
It is this combination that appeals to me : the perfection of craftsmanship , the organic character of natural materials , and the spirituality that individuals bring to their work , their ideas , and also the vision of their subsequent use . I admire the precision of the craftsmen we work with and I love the sensation of the natural , processed material and the harmonious balance in a minimalist design language .
Once you find your inspiration , how do you decide which direction it will take you in ?
Our products , created through collaboration with artists and craftsmen from around the world , are reminiscences of the cultural inventory and recourse to things elaborated and created by people . Together with the artists and craftsmen we further develop these valuable cultural assets and traditions and bring them into the modern age . We developed the KAYA porcelain based on our design idea together with our manufacturer ’ s potter directly on site in Vietnam - from my idea for a filigree espresso cup , by and by we developed a whole tableware series . The design of the bathtub OFURO combines Japanese traditional patterns with the original
Absolutely .
Talking of cooperation , what connects your designs ? What is the common creative thread , so to speak ?
In descriptions of our design objects , we always find the abstracted Japanese influences . All of our products are described as minimalist and stripped back or pristine . This minimalism combines functionality and aesthetics . We focus on the highest quality detail and aesthetic durability , and by choosing materials that not only look good but also feel good , we add warmth to the minimalism and a tactile quality to the design .
What ’ s next on your agenda ?
Currently , a new tableware series is about to launch . It is largely inspired by traditional vessels from centuries past and the peculiarities of celadon glazes . - During my trip to Vietnam , while wandering through various antique stores , the design idea grew and developed in my head . Together with an artist who has been experimenting with and researching this particular technique for years , these ideas were brought to life .