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When a product becomes tarnished or broken, it is often rejected and ignored, but in certain circumstances it is possible for such defects or impairments to be deliberately incorporated into a design, elevating what might normally be perceived as a negative attribute into something beautiful. The ability to challenge accepted perceptions of a material in order to propel thinking towards possible ambiguity and uncertainty can often release a plethora of pure ideas that are instantaneously endorsed.
Front Front, formed in 2003, are based in Stockholm, Sweden. The four innovative partners, Sofia Lagerkvist, Charlotte von der Lancken, Anna Lingren and Katja Sävström, are all involved in the diverse aspects of the design journey, which particularly explores the product narrative, and the emotional language of ideas.
The use or production of broken and salvaged ceramic components can be an inspirational catalyst culminating in outcomes that are synonymous with abstract art, in that they can be interpreted differently depending on the individual observer. The often chaotic impression of work that introduces a blemished or seemingly ruined element does not lessen the overall experience if the piece is appropriately composed, constructed, and controlled. A single component of a design can often make the difference between success and failure. Carefully addressing individual areas with an awareness of the bigger picture makes it possible for a design to embrace seemingly negative attributes to stimulate positive debate. Production processes can also be explored and challenged to create unfamiliar outcomes to trigger possible new directions. The utilisation of combustible frameworks or structures that can initially support a ceramic artefact in a kiln will reveal incredible delicate forms. The innovative process is often explored and has incredible scope for imaginative experimentation.
The designs have successfully questioned convention, and collections such as ‘Design by Animals’ (2003), ‘Design by...’ (2004), and the ‘Story of Things’ (2005) represent an ever-increasing portfolio of creativity.
Plastic > Glass and ceramic > Paper
Imperfection