Anna Štajglová

Masopust

Carpet maker

©Kensey Berry

Fanciful paintings in wool

Anna studied industrial and product design
She is also experienced in arranging window displays
As well as weaving, she can work wood and metal

When coming across some of Anna Štajglová's works, the first thing you notice is the striking colours – that's why you can't overlook her piece in any interior. What makes you watch it further is the witty motif: the play of creativity stimulating your imagination. Once you come closer, you feel the urge to touch it. And the author feels the same: "I like the tangibility of my objects. The wool is so soft, so delightful to touch. That's why I like to work with this material. It's genuinely relaxing." And so is observing the final pieces. The joyful nature of Anna's creations soothes the mind; the fluffy texture caresses the body. No wonder that her works gained numerous design prizes and nominations.

Interview

©Kensey Berry

©Kensey Berry

How would you characterise what you do?: It is something between functional product design and fine art. I'm an artisan, but tufting is my form of creative expression. I approach the tapestries and rugs like wool paintings. But I love their functionality too, such as isolating and acoustic properties.
Besides rugs and tapestries, what else do you make?: It depends on mine or the customer's fantasy: I make home accessories that can range from a pillow to a piece of furniture. I like bringing the tufting technique to uncommon contexts. So, for example, I've made ceiling rosettes or bed headboards.
Your works are imaginative, but what inspires you?: Generally, it's details that I notice when walking through the city or nature. Often the very space where the piece is to be installed inspires me. Sometimes, I just think about the interior before sleep, and the vision comes spontaneously.
When do you consider the work well done?: For me, if it is well made, the piece will look as perfect on the rear, bottom or any side that is not viewed regularly. It must be perfect from all angles. Therefore, I craft the wooden backs of the tapestries, or I hand-sew the edges of every rug.

Anna Štajglová is a rising star: she began her career in 2017 and she started teaching in 2021