Interviews with Maciej Kasprzak

It all started with a dream to become a Formula one driver one day. I was quite successful in karting and had a chance to compete in the German edition of Formula four, but I had to find sponsors for the whole season. Unfortunately, I didn't find enough sponsors to finance the season. I came up with the idea that I could build my own brand and finance the races myself instead of asking other brands for support. Every company sells a product or service. When I was 15 and still in school, I couldn't provide a service. That's what I thought at the time. So the only option was to design my own products and launch them. I had no skills and money. So I searched the internet and found the free program "Blender", which I learned through YouTube tutorials. I almost gave up, but found a way back after graduating. At school, I was good at drawing and decided to study math and art to become a teacher. I needed a portfolio to get a place and as I was preparing it, I came across my old projects. I wanted to try out the idea of ​​building my own brand a few months before I started my studies. I knew I had to design something that was cheap to produce and that's the reason why I started designing jewelry. Since I didn't have a degree in art or design, I needed social recognition and decided to enter the A`design Award & Competition. The award gave me hope and motivation to keep working on my dream of racing. This is the point I am at now.

My priority is to charge each project with emotion because these are the main selling points. I ask myself what is the difference between my jewelry and that of my competitors and how I can add additional value to the customers. In both cases we only have a few grams of silver or gold and maybe a few stones. When I work on new projects, I usually start with a research of what has been done so far. Then I ask myself if there is another creative way to achieve all the goals. In the next steps, I create images in my head of how the design could look, make some sketches, choose the best one and add some details and finally, when I am satisfied, I work with computer tools and a 3D printer.

When I design, I feel an inner peace and it somehow relaxes me inside. I enjoy the part where I develop the main idea and the phase when I have a rendering or prototype in front of my eyes. The modeling, which is the longest part, is at least fun for me, but solving the final problems in this part makes me feel good.

I think my skills include discipline, perseverance, persistence, and the curiosity to understand how something works, how it is constructed, … The biggest influence on me, like on everyone else, was the past. I had to take responsibility for my siblings at a young age because my parents worked abroad. When I moved to Germany at 12, I was forced to learn the language as quickly as possible because there is massive segregation in the education system. If you don't do well in elementary school, your future is more or less predetermined. I remember memorizing all the notebook entries in case I was asked, and I didn't even know what I was learning. My design journey starts now next to studies and work. I feel motivated to create some new designs and enter competitions in the next few years and to focus more on design in the future.

My plans for the future are to finish my studies and build a brand that would help me finance my further education at prestigious universities or academies. I want to work on big projects in the future and have an impact on the design of the world. I have many personal projects in mind but no time to work on them. I hope to have one of them ready for the A`Design & Competition next year.

I don't want to give advice to designers who are just starting out in their careers, because I'm just starting out too.

I need this pro-tips too.

My day at the moment looks like a typical student day, just without parties or other social activities. Instead, there is time for work at school, maybe fitness and some time for design, especially on the weekends. It's not worth going into detail, but I'm working on changing this routine.

I don't follow trends. At this stage of my career I'm more trying to find, develop and define my own style. Of course, other designs and my environment influence my work.

For me, good design must be useful, look aesthetic, be affordable in production and convey emotions. I pay particular attention to the high quality of materials and workmanship, as well as to the small details that are not visible at first glance.

I'm a person who always finds something that could be done better or differently. I haven't worked with many clients so far, but the last project was finished right before the deadline. I always have an open tab in my head to improve my previous designs. I should focus on new designs instead.

My biggest design work is the dance bracelet that won the A`Design Award because it opened so many doors for me.

There are many designers I really admire. Flavio Manzoni, Horacio Pagani, Lucia Silvestri, Dieter Ram and Jonathan Ive are just a few. It is not possible to choose just one of them because each of them has done something special. I do not want to decide who has influenced our understanding of good design the most because I am familiar with the history of art and not design.

I had the opportunity to grow up in two different countries with different cultures and values. This experience has made me who I am today. I am a person who doesn't like being in crowded places and likes to be in nature.

I work on the designs alone, but I plan to build a team of professionals in the near future. Working with me as a supplier or craftsman is not the easiest task, as I expect perfection from them in every aspect.

I haven't done anything like this before, but I would consider pro bono design work.

The days I spent in Como were like a dream come true. I never thought that as a student I could get this far with just one design and compete against established designers and big international companies. This was the first time I participated in a design competition and on top of that to receive the Young Design Pioneer award was unreal. Standing on stage in front of the best designers in the world was an unforgettable experience. I could barely utter words. It was scary but something I could get used to. I hope these awards will help me launch my career as a professional designer and reach people interested in my projects and services. Now I have to make the most of it and use all the benefits and support I get from the A`Design Award & Competition team. Through the competition I realized that I can achieve great things in design, I made new like-minded friends from all over the world and the certificates on my desk motivate me every day to work hard on my future plans. I am very grateful for this award and would like to thank the entire team who supported me by questions and problems.

I wanted to design a simple piece of jewelry that many people can afford. The segments can be easily replaced or added. It is also possible to combine silver and gold (plated) links. The focus was on creating a meaningful jewelry which can be used for example as a reminder of priorities set in life.

I would ideally like to bring it onto the market under my name. But I am also aware that it is not easy to build a brand while studying. That's why I'm open to collaborations or offers.

It took quite a long time. I designed it when I had more time and hadn't do anything for my studies or work.

I was learning 3d modeling and around the same time my lecturer showed us dancing in different paintings. I can remember that the work of Henri Matisse looked already to me like a bracelet. I wanted to try if I can model a bracelet to this topic and that was it.

I plan to sell or lease the production rights. If I don't get a good offer I am considering producing and selling it under my brand.

I started with designing jewelry, because it is cost-effective, the material gives unlimited possibilities and this type of work is very beginner friendly for all who haven't got experience in design.

The target customer are men and women who

My design hasn't got a standard closure mechanism and the form of links is quite unique. I see my design as a small, wearable sculpture.

I was inspired by old paintings which showed dancing people and the movement. "Dance" as a request calls to action. It goes with the message of the bracelet very well.

I used a pen, paper, Pc with Blender and a 3d printer.

The form of each link, the closure and the possibility of adding or reducing links.

I did not collaborate with anyone for this design.

With the 3d printing technology it is possible to produce complex jewelry pieces.

My design isn't influenced by data or analytical research.

The biggest challenge was to find good settings and material properties for the rendering.

I wanted to show how good are my designs.

I learned how to set lighting for good jewelry renderings.

I want to become a designer, because I really like the process of developing a new object from a scratch.

I'm not even studying design, but I want to become a good designer.

I currently design jewelry, because it is a cheap entry if you want to have final product. I would wish to design more complex objects in the future.

Not a legend.

A good designer implements what he learned, a great designer forget it and try to find new ways.

I would focus not only what you can see, but also on the associations, interpretation possibilities and most important the feeling by seeing/wearing it.

I am a huge fan of quality which goes most of the time with good design.

I would like to design accessories for fashion and jewelry houses like Bulgari, Zegna, Loro Piana, Damiani,... but also make designs for brans like Pininfarina, Bertone, Ferrari, Pagani or Zaha Hadid architects if I had the opportunity.

I am currently working on a trolley which will set new standards.

I can't tell it because I am a beginner.

Horatio Pagani, Zaha Hadid, Christian Dior, ...

I think that the dance bracelet is my greatest design, because it is much more than jewelry. The meaning and the relation to tradition and cultural aspects make the design unique.

They can relate to art history and to culture and distance a bit from form follows function.

I would become a teacher and if I had enough money I would become a professional racing driver.

Design is for me a clear language that most of the people understand. Emotion and feelings can be expressed by the design...

The platform YouTube and many tutorials helped me to learn how to use programs and design objects. I do nat have may supporters, because the most people think I aim to high.

discipline, self believe

I couldn't work on 3d programs and had very limited time while studying full time and working.

They should preset it just like art at museums and in the public space.

You can expect from my many different projects in the future. Each of them will break with all the conventions and be a unique piece.

I want to work on many exiting projects, have a good life and work part time remotely.

They don't expect anything, because I am a starting designer an anyone don't know me.

I work as a teacher and see the lack of interest in art and design. Very few pupils of mine were in a museum in their life time. Through design we can bring art/design in their lives and awake their interest.

I am working on a sculpture made out of metal which will be exhibited on the campus of University of Augsburg.

The Dance Bracelet gave me the most satisfaction, because I realized that I can achieve a lot in design.

I would wish more complicated and more different designs.

I think that the virtual world will be a huge field for designers.

I takes me about 50 to 100 hours depending on the project. Some of them takes longer.

I always start with some sketches.

Design only objects which you will purchase.

I think that both is right.

The technology helps a lot and speed up the whole process.

I do only use the free software Blender and the Adobe Cloud.

It is there to underline the greatness of the design.

Where can I buy it?

Why I haven't got this idea?

I do believe in co-design, but I haven't thought about the ideal partner. There are too many I could work with.

I am not a master. I developed my skills by watching tutorials and trying to implement the knowledge into my designs.

I would like to talk with Horazio Pagani, Flavio Manzoni, Virgil Abloh, Christian Dior,...

I don't know - still waiting for the fame ;)

blue, Sardinia, can't choose one, summer, watch, Apple

The funniest think is that I am not a designer, but a normal student of art and mathematics who has won a design competition.

I do want a better life.

No. I wanted to become an architect.

We will travel between many planets.

There are many designs on progress. If you want to know about me or my designs follow me on Instagram: maciekmichalKasprzak

I founded my company (Renderamo) in November 2022. Since than I am working on creating the website, new products next to studying and working. The design studio will offer 3d services and its own products.

Design is for me the most efficient way of communication.

I am designing mostly jewelry, but want to expand my portfolio in near future.

The dance bracelet is my favorite design right now, because I won my first award with it.

I have only designed for myself. It was a bicycle inspired by formula one.

3D Print, Casting, metal and wood

In gym between the sets.

I focus on the message the design should transport and then on the unique form.

only positive once

I’m mostly proud of myself that I was able to create it.

Many aspects that play together like form, meaning, function,…

The idea.

A designer should be focused on designing meaningful and functional products which production is good for the environment.

I hope that the designs will be more various and complex in the future because of 3d printing technology.

art history, nature, instagram

I think that my style is very unusual. I don’t like simple forms and reducing on the most important.

I am living in Germany for 12 years. I come originally from Poland and feel a cultural heritage of the country. My family

I haven’t worked with companies yet, but I try to be very professional in all I’m doing.

This is very simple. Just contact me.

I always start with an idea which evolves in my head. At the beginning I start with a research on the internet about what has been done so far. With a clear vision in my head I make first sketches

I do not have any design items at home.

I wake up, have a breakfast, go to a university or work. Evenings I normally hit the gym or work on my own projects.

Try and fail until you succeed.

I’m not a designer, but it’s great to work on new cool products and be able to change the environment. I can imagine that working with some clients might be stressful.

Design what you would like to use/have/wear.

From my point of view is the ability to imagine objects and bring them first on paper and then translate them into 3d the most important skills. Understanding the function of an object also helps.

Paper, pen, Mac Studio, Blender, Adobe Cloud, 3d Printer

I reduce everything else that isn’t important to me.

It depends on how complex is the project, but it takes me in general about 100 hours from beginning to end.

Can I make living of it? It is possible to be on top without any connections?

Teaching art at school and learning how young humans see the world.

I do enjoy the first phase in which you come up with ideas and make some first sketches and than the 3d printing process the most.

Become a real designer and work for international clients.

I develop everything by myself.

I have many ideas for different projects, but it’s too early to talk about more than 5 min. I am currently building a brand which will offer 3d services and my design.

They can write me an email: maciekkasprzak16@gmail.com, call me under +49 1747588492 or contact me via social media. Instagram: maciekmichalkasprzak

The bracelet's unique closure mechanism, which allows each link to be opened individually, was inspired by a desire to preserve the elegance and continuity of the design. Traditional closure mechanisms, while functional, often disrupt the aesthetic flow of a piece. I wanted to find a solution that maintained the bracelet's clean and seamless appearance while still providing a secure and functional fastening method. During the design process, I focused on refining the shape to ensure the bracelet remained securely fastened when worn, addressing the challenge of unintentional opening. While this mechanism may not necessarily be faster or easier than conventional designs, it integrates harmoniously with the overall aesthetic, enhancing the wearer’s experience by combining functionality with visual appeal.

The works of Nicolas Lancret are characterized by a dynamic sense of movement, which I sought to capture in the Dance Bracelet despite the inherent constraints of working with jewelry rather than paint. To translate this sense of motion, I began by sketching dancing figures inspired by his paintings, focusing on side profiles to distill the essence of their fluid movements. As I transitioned to CAD modeling, it became clear that each link should echo the letter "O," a shape prominently reflected in Henri Matisse's "Dance." This circular form embodies both unity and motion, resonating with Matisse's themes. Matisse's work has long fascinated me - not only for its aesthetic qualities but also for the emotional depth and personal dilemmas he expressed. By weaving these artistic inspirations into a contemporary design, I aimed to honor their timeless essence while creating a modern, wearable interpretation.

To achieve the illusion of continuous movement in the bracelet, I deliberately avoided horizontal lines, focusing instead on smooth transitions between vertical lines that best represent the human figure. The goal was to create a sense of interconnection and flow, so I designed the figures to interpenetrate one another, joining their arms at the top and their legs at the bottom. To maintain the dynamic aesthetic while accommodating functionality, I had to break the link at a strategic point to bypass the need for a standard closure mechanism. I chose the space between the chest and the head, at the woman's shoulder, as this break remains nearly invisible from the side, preserving the bracelet's fluidity. Additionally, I angled the woman’s silhouette slightly more obliquely to enable the bracelet to wrap around the wrist comfortably. This adjustment not only served a practical purpose but also enhanced the overall dynamism of the design, reinforcing the impression of movement in a static silver form.

This is indeed a challenging question, as my dual background in art and mathematics influences my work in nuanced ways. On one hand, my mathematical studies encourage me to seek formulas and structures that provide direction and order in my designs. On the other hand, my artistic side seeks freedom and expression, wanting to "spread its wings." The Dance Bracelet is a reflection of this balance - a compromise between aesthetic values and precise proportions. Mathematics provided the foundation for achieving harmony and proportion, while my artistic instincts guided the creative flow of the design. Balancing these two disciplines is often a challenge, as my studies demand a significant amount of time that I would otherwise love to dedicate to designing. However, this duality ultimately enriches my work, pushing me to create pieces like the Dance Bracelet that unite the rigor of mathematics with the emotional resonance of art.

Dance is a universal expression of joy and celebration, interpreted similarly across many cultures. In the Dance Bracelet, I sought to embody this spirit by designing each link to symbolize the dynamic movements of dance. These links connect seamlessly, creating a bracelet with no discernible beginning or end. This continuity reflects the unbroken flow of emotions and state of mind experienced during dance - a moment of pure presence and joy. The closed form of the bracelet reinforces this idea, suggesting that the happiness and vitality of dance can be eternal, serving as a constant reminder to "enjoy every moment of life."

My research into Timorese ceremonial bracelets opened my eyes to cultural dimensions I hadn’t been fully aware of before. I was particularly fascinated by how objects are perceived and imbued with cultural significance in different parts of the world. Incorporating these unique characteristics into my designs felt essential, as they add depth and meaning to the pieces. For me, wearable art is no different from fine art. It’s not just about creating something visually appealing or showcasing technical mastery; it’s also about conveying thoughts, emotions, and messages - often in ways that aren’t immediately visible. Drawing from Timorese traditions allowed me to infuse the Dance Bracelet with a sense of cultural richness and narrative, transforming it into a piece that goes beyond aesthetics to engage with a broader artistic and human story.

The primary consideration behind designing the bracelet to accommodate mixed materials was practicality for everyday life. Over time, it’s natural for jewelry to experience wear, such as scratches or accidental damage. By allowing for customization, the bracelet becomes more adaptable and easier to maintain. The second reason was to offer the wearer a piece that could grow and evolve over time. Just as our financial situations, personal styles, and preferences change, I wanted the bracelet to reflect these transformations. For instance, achieving a milestone could be marked by replacing an element with one crafted from a more valuable metal - like leveling up in a game. Additionally, this versatility enhances the bracelet’s cohesiveness with other jewelry. If you acquire a new piece in a different metal, you can swap one or two elements of the bracelet to match, creating a unified and personalized look. This adaptability ensures the Dance Bracelet remains a meaningful and versatile companion throughout life’s journey.

The A' Design Award has reinforced my belief that I am on the right path with my designs, rather than changing my vision for jewelry. This recognition has given me the confidence to pursue my creative aspirations with greater focus and determination. Initially, Renderamo was conceived as a service company aimed at making 3D design and printing more accessible to private individuals. In its early stages, I wanted to test the market's interest and the potential profitability of such services. However, since receiving the award, my perspective has shifted significantly. I now see the potential to make a meaningful impact in the design world, and my focus has shifted entirely to creating artistic jewelry under my personal brand, MMK Studios. I invite you to explore my journey, my designs, and the development of my international brand by visiting my website, www.mmkstudios.com. For regular insights into my life and creative process, I encourage you to follow me on Instagram and LinkedIn, where I plan to share content regularly.

To create a design that transcends traditional gender-specific jewelry conventions, I began by collecting a wide range of reference images of bracelets, analyzing their characteristics, and identifying elements that appealed to different genders. This research helped me understand the common features that might influence perception while also challenging conventional notions of masculine and feminine design. From there, I approached the design process iteratively, working toward a balance between angular and round elements. The angular components introduce a structured and bold aesthetic, while the round elements add softness and fluidity. This interplay creates a harmonious design that feels universal and inclusive, resonating with individuals regardless of gender. My goal was to craft a piece that prioritizes personal expression over traditional norms, offering a versatile bracelet that anyone can wear and feel connected to, without it being defined by gender-specific expectations.