Taking new shapes

ISSUE: 128

What inspires you?

YM: Everyday objects inspire me. The idea that even a slight change in shape, size or angle can change the whole purpose of a well-thought-of, standard object is fascinating. That is what I’m trying to do here. I see the process phase of design as my playground where I try to re-imagine objects beyond their assigned purpose. I like going with that flow. My idea of design is very close to the playful design approach of the Japanese designer, Oki Sato. His work inspires me.

Tell us about your ‘Outside-Inside’ project.

YM: ‘Outside-Inside’ is an object made using pine needles that tries to break away from the stereotypical image of a vessel while utilizing the natural properties of the material. It looks like a piece of nature brought into a household setting. It is a living object and changes colour, smell, and texture with the seasons. It took years of struggle before I actually embraced the pine needle in its most natural form. The project is an encasement of our experience of living in the Himachal.

What role does social media play in your business domain?

YM: I feel social media is the only reason I have been able to put myself out. I am a very shy person and social media has warmed me up for the real world (or maybe social media is the real world now). People showed interest in my work through my social media handle and that gave me confidence about selling my work. I am still working on it though, but I will start with using social media as my portal. It’s my anchor, and I think it should be utilized as much as possible.

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