“Authenticity is my north star,” says designer Mark Grattan – founder and artistic director of VIDIVIXI (it means “I noticed, I lived” and references a Victor Hugo poem), advisor to Solange Knowles for her hyper-creative platform Saint Heron, and the much-lauded winner of the debut season of Ellen’s Subsequent Nice Designer earlier this 12 months. On this week’s Milkshake, the normally Mexico Metropolis-based Grattan joins us from his sublet in New York Metropolis to share his ideas on artistic self-preservation, dangers, and authenticity, and the hyperlinks between them.
“Authenticity is my north star as a result of it fuels my work,” he says. “If I’m in a position to talk issues in a approach that’s coming from my very own, true voice, then I’m glad about it. It’s one thing that I pursue.” He connects his appreciation for authenticity to his mom’s capability for risk-taking: “There are not any dangers with out authenticity, and there’s no dangers with out bravery,” he says. It’s simply one thing that comes naturally [to me]. That was one thing my mom handed to me. She was a threat taker. She threw warning to the wind quite a bit; she trusted the universe. She had a variety of religion, and I’m so glad that I’ve kind of been in a position to belief myself, and belief the world round me.”
Additionally on this episode, we discuss with Mark concerning the artistic significance of transferring his observe to Mexico Metropolis – giving him the headspace to work in his singularly sensuous, sinuous type, with Excessive Glam finishes and super-sexy silhouettes. “Mexico gave me the chance and the time and the kind of rest to launch – to lastly have my voice, as a result of this isn’t one thing that’s simply attained in New York,” he says.
“New York is a really stunning place. I believe it’s very productive. I believe it’s nice for creatives – if you wish to make a sale. However I believe that’s the place it stops. Huge cities are nice for promoting. However they’re not place to be artistic. I discovered that in Mexico. I didn’t even know I used to be on the lookout for it, however I did.”
For extra – together with his perspective on safeguarding his artistic headspace, and the rewards of being a loner – tune in.
Diana Ostrom, who has written for Wallpaper, Inside Design, ID, The Wall Avenue Journal, and different shops, can also be the creator of Faraway Locations, a publication about journey.
Milkshake, DMTV (Design Milk TV)’s first common collection, shakes up the standard interview format by asking designers, creatives, educators and business professionals to pick out interview questions at random from their favourite bowl or vessel. Throughout their candid discussions, you’ll not solely acquire a peek into their private homeware collections, but in addition precious insights into their work, life and passions.
