Meet students from Bornholm: Entrepreneurs Will and Annelie

As a student at Craft - Glass and Ceramics, KADK, you have the opportunity to work artistically, but while focusing on the design process itself. You learn ​​how designthinking can be used in different contexts, and beyond the glass and ceramic field. Meet the students Annelie Grimwade Olofsson and George William Bell from ceramics and glass respectively. They combine traditional handcraft knowledge with an experimental design process, and have already started their own design company Diameter 34. 

How do you approach design? 
In our design process we seek to combine traditional handcraft knowledge with an experimental design process. Ideals of materiality are central to the way we approach our work, each design highlighting the unique properties of our chosen materials, ceramics and glass.

What motivated you to start your own design studio?
I think it happened quite naturally. As we began to collaborate we realised how similar our design concepts and ideals were. We also have skills in different area’s which seem to compliment each other. We unveiled our brand last year at Ambiente, which was great as we could get real feedback on our products directly from the customers at the fair. 

How would you describe the school? 
KADK Bornholm is a great place to evolve as a designer, craftsperson and artist. With 24 hour access to the studio’s you are able to act immediately whenever inspiration strikes. With guest teachers coming from around the world you gain unique insights and connections within the industry.

What are your greatest strengths as students from KADK, Bornholm?
Our time at KADK, Bornholm has been instrumental in the development of what we feel is our best asset as designers and makers. Through three years of hands-on work in our respective fields have developed a personal understanding and relations with glass and ceramics. An understanding we are now able to use in the development of projects.

The Home Assignment for applying the Professional Bachelor of Crafts in Glass and Ceramics is now published. What advice would you give to potential future students?

Before the application: Prepare your portfolio, visual images are important, stick to the
restrictions of the application form. Secondly write a concise statement that communicates your practice, not an autobiography, the same goes for writing the home assignment, always try to be precise and honest about what you are working with. Thirdly don’t panic!

During Studies: You have every opportunity to have three and half years of great experience, both socially and study wise. The school is truly amazing at providing you with materials, tools and knowledge to both see your intention possible and push you creative context forward.