Ionuț Marin

MOTA

Leatherworker

©Bogdan Gîrbovan

When metal meets leather

Ionuț is a self-taught leatherworker
His designs are based on a masculine, sculptural vision
The custom-made metallic details constitute MOTA’s trademark

Trained in metal sculpture and self-taught in leatherworking, Ionuț Marin combined his two specialisations after realising the resemblance between leather and metalworking techniques and the impressive results of bringing them together. He opened the MOTA studio a few years ago, driven by his passion for his craft and inspired by renowned mavericks who paved the way in their fields. Although Ionuț envisioned selling his creations to men, the bags he makes are also popular with women. His designs have a sculptural approach, whilst the metallic elements have become his trademark. Ionuț has a PhD in applied arts and is an assistant professor at the National University of Arts in Bucharest.

Interview

Why did you choose metal sculpture at first?: I like metal because it offers many means of expression. You can obtain different artistic effects from each type of metal and that's why I integrate it into making leather bags. My grandfather was a blacksmith, so it may also be an inner calling passed down from one generation to another.
How do leather and metal reconcile in your creations?: There is an integration by contrast as the two combine very well. The metal is hard, heavy and cold, while the leather is malleable, warm and pleasant to the touch. The absence of metal in the models I create would mean a lack of impact. I choose instead to highlight the qualities of both materials.
What does 'well made' mean to you?: It means quality and durability. I handcraft MOTA bags with timelessness and durability in mind. It is a principle I also apply to life. I like things well done, with a sense of responsibility and built over time, starting from a solid foundation.
What would you advise a young person starting out in your craft?: Lack of knowledge when starting out should not be discouraging. Creativity mixed with passion and determination can easily make up for it. Try different techniques or materials that may not seem compatible. Cultivate out-of-the-box thinking and introspection, in order to realise what you like most.

Ionuț Marin is an expert artisan: he began his career in 2010