The globetrotting, Stockholm-based designer duo Tor Palm and Mattias Rask have made their own personal need for a broader perspective into an international adventure. In exchange for locally sourced inspiration and ideas, they sell craft designs to big design retailers of the world.
Tor, how did the actual idea behind Glimpt’s way of working come to your mind?
The idea of being stuck behind a desk and working in the traditional way was not appealing. Instead, both of us wanted to explore the world as a source of inspiration. We wanted to come up with great ideas through new impressions, colours, materials and shapes.
Explain how you managed to come into contact with local artists and craftsmen in the countries that you have applied your ideas in?
In our most recent Peruvian venture, we went through the Peruvian Embassy in Stockholm. They pointed us to a local organization, promoting various types of craftsmen, and they helped us pick out a selection of suitable partners to work with. Previously, we’ve also initiated projects in South Africa and Vietnam.
What is your experience when it comes to working with different ideas and cultures?
Of course there are plenty of hiccups and discrepancies in what we would like to do and what the locals put out. But we have formed ways to negotiate and work around areas that cause issues. From a design perspective, the end product always showcases fantastic qualities and proves that handicraft displays well, even in demanding milieus – not to mention the positive financial impact it has on the local community.
How did the furniture market react to the designs created out of your work?
Our greatest success so far has been the Superhero series that came out of us working with Nam Phuong in Ho Chi Minh City. The colourful woven lounge chairs and puffs were quickly picked up by Italian design company Cappellini, and are now sold through their retail outlets.
What’s next for Glimpt?
We are currently raising funds to be able to go to Romania. We want to do a project incorporating designs from the Roma community.
Words by Micha Van Dinther & Magnus Wittbjer
