Dynamic vessels
- Alexander has a master's in design
- Unpredictability and transformation are central to his work
- Trees provide the narrative and inspiration for his creations
Alexander de Vol started his professional career in both commercial fashion and product design. Observing first-hand the environmental and social consequences of assembly line manufacturing, responsible making with integrity became his main motivation. “I worked closely with factories and observed the increasing disconnect between design authors and makers,” he explains. Ever since childhood, Alexander spent most of his free time making and could not imagine a life without it. A non-functional chess board made from wood, metal and ceramics, that he designed in school at the age of 14, was the precursor to the mixed media vessels and objects he makes today. His studio, originally built in the 16th century as a broom workshop, has served as a workshop for many artisans before him.
Interview
- Did you learn from a master woodworker?
- The majority of my practical skills are self-taught or learned early in my career working as a designer and my master's degree provided an opportunity to develop the conceptual narratives of my practice.
- What materials do you use and why did you choose them?
- Primarily wood, metal and ceramic, but I am interested in any material with dynamic properties which is capable of responding to its environment. I like to create a dialogue with the material itself and allow its features to inform the products I make.
- Do you come across ethical issues in your profession?
- Early in my career as a designer I observed first-hand the environmental and social consequences of assembly line manufacturing. This prompted a reassessment of how I was going to build a career from making.
- What is your proudest moment to date?
- Of course, it is an honour to have my work published or nominated. The greatest privilege though is simply being able to work with customers and galleries who trust me to make pieces that are true to my values and creative direction.
Alexander de Vol is an expert artisan: he began his career in 2010
Where
Alexander de Vol
