Laurenz Kyral

Metalworker

©Laurenz Kyral

Making his mark in the world of metal

Laurenz is a designer, craftsman and artist
His passion is patinating metal in an unusual way
He is deeply connected to Viennese architecture

On his father’s side, Laurenz Kyral comes from a Viennese family of famous tinsmiths and girdlers. His mother works as a paper artist and designer. As their son, he merges both worlds to perfection. He calls himself a generalist, working as artistically as possible with different kinds of metals. His first objects, small metal bowls with differently processed surfaces, were sold even before he started his university studies. Now, still only in his 20s, he is a multi-award-winning artisan. "It is all about experience and lifelong learning," says Laurenz, who exudes maturity and self-confidence, complementing his easy-going and lighthearted attitude.

Interview

©Familie Kyral

©Laurenz Kyral

How important is your family background for your career?: Although I am aware of how fundamental the famous works of my father, grandfather and great-grandfather are for my identity, it is currently more relevant for me to find my very own style and way of creating, to be independent and openminded towards different influences.
Will you take over your father’s company some day?: Even though I’ve already completed my training, I still feel like I'm in my apprentice years. Therefore currently the most important step for me is to work for myself and with some other companies before thinking about my future in the family business.
What's your attitude towards design and making?: High quality products need time at every step of the process: in drafting, designing and making. This holistic process has fascinated me from the beginning. I always wanted to be a generalist joining together plan, design and execution.
What's the most important piece you have created?: One of my signature products is a series of vases patinated by the wind, for which I had to construct a special machine. Its shape recalls the traditional process of patination. It is installed outdoors and moves with the air, so that each vase has a unique pattern, created by a synergy of human and nature.

Laurenz Kyral is a rising star: he began his career in 2017 and he started teaching in 2018