Congratulations again, Matt, for stopping the judges in their tracks and becoming a 2024 winner. You are amazing!
Where did you study and what was the course title?
Manchester School of Art, Product Design & Craft
Name of your lecturer – course tutor?
Geoffrey Mann & Dr CJ O’Neill
1. How did you feel about winning the attention of the judges – what does it mean to you?
Capturing the judges' attention with my work was a triumphant moment. It was only the second time this piece had been displayed publicly, so winning the award felt like validation that I was on the right track. I've learned that completing a piece creates a strong attachment to it, making external appreciation deeply fulfilling. When someone recognises my work, it brings a sense of achievement, knowing that my ideas and designs have resonated with others.
2. How important is colour in your work and why?
The use of colour in my work is undeniably a primary focus. The shifting hues in the glass aim to spark the viewer's imagination and transport them to an otherworldly realm. Colour is crucial for achieving my desired aesthetic, making it a unique and essential element. Bringing this vibrant glow to life enables my work to create its own atmosphere of light, colour, and material. Without colour, my work would lose its impact.
3. What is your main source of inspiration?
My primary source of inspiration is the creation of aesthetically novel concepts. All my work is based on the idea of materials being mined from the moon. The extraction of lunar matter for human use might become feasible within the next decade. I draw significant inspiration from the moon's grey, barren landscape, and by introducing vivid colours, I aim to suggest future materials. Additionally, I am inspired by digital creation and enjoy crafting physical objects that appear digital, thereby merging the physical and digital realms.
4. What makes you happiest/most fulfilled in your creative process?
Although few things compare to the satisfaction of retrieving a finished cast from the kiln, the happiest moments in my creative process come from experimenting with samples to develop new work that interacts well with light. I excel in hands-on material work, where materiality is paramount. I prefer experimenting with samples over sketching, as it allows me to explore and innovate more effectively.
5. Creative high point?
My creative high point has to be New Designers, where I was fortunate enough to receive the Colour in Design Award along with another accolade. This recognition gave me a deep sense of validation in my work so far. Additionally, I had the opportunity to connect with some incredible people who could open doors for me in the future.
6. Creative low point?
My creative low point is likely when I go back home for the summer. During this period, I stepped away from my creative work and felt very disconnected from it, making it hard to get started again. However, I believe that taking extended breaks can provide a fresh perspective when I eventually return to my projects.
7. Where do you want to be in 3 years’ time?
In three years, I would love to be working abroad in a studio, ideally creating one-of-a-kind furniture with a team. However, I'm not limiting myself to any specific direction just yet—I'm open to exploring wherever my creative journey takes me.
8. Please tell us about a special person during your studies/life who has really made a difference to you on your creative journey.
A special person who has made a significant difference in my creative journey is undoubtedly my mom. Our conversations about intriguing ideas and fascinating things we've encountered are a constant source of inspiration. We share a similar aesthetic sensibility, making it wonderful to bounce ideas off each other and explore where our discussions lead. My mom's insights and support have been invaluable, and her influence has profoundly shaped my creative process. Her encouragement and understanding have fuelled my growth and creativity, making her an essential part of my artistic development.
9. What is your favourite colour?
My favourite colour at the moment has to be Pink.
Instagram: www.instagram.com/matturnerdesign