GRAY magazine No. 44: LUXURY

last look

BAR CONCEPT As told to JENNIFER MCCULLUM Photographed by GEORGE BARBERIS

“I describe the essence of what we do as ‘punk luxe.’

Glassblowing is not an inexpensive art form, so in that sense our work is always luxurious, but we give it our own spin: a little subversive, kind of playful. We want to take this craft and material that are so historically based, with so much tradition, and make them feel current.

“The Alchemist decanter set is not just a centerpiece you might have on your bar.

Each part has an individual function but still exists within the other. The ice bowl grounds the piece, so, while it’s tall, it doesn’t feel like it will tip. The stopper is actually its own, smaller decanter. It doesn’t have a flat bottom, so it’s dependent on the larger decanter for stability.

“Each piece honors each aspect of the design, almost like a Japanese tea ceremony. There’s a meditative approach, a presentation, and a process to how you prepare the liquor. It’s all really thoughtful, slow, and time-based—which is the ultimate luxury.” h —Andi Kovel

Artist and designer

Esque Studio

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GRAY MAGAZINE

Each piece of the Alchemist decanter set from Portland’s Esque Studio nests together, creating an all-inclusive showpiece.