SO MINT! dig in by Lilli Malou Weinhold

Lilli Malou Weinhold: The ideas and themes that inspire my work stem from the observation of my own and others’ perceptions of objects, materials, and circumstances. I am intrigued by the profound impact that certain objects or materials can have on our emotions, evoking feelings that are difficult to express in words but hold deep significance for us. I constantly question why some objects trigger such strong emotional responses whilst others seem to leave us indifferent.

This exploration of emotions and connections to objects makes my design work a deeply personal endeavour. Through presenting and displaying my creations, I seek to investigate how others react to them, further delving into the complexities of human experiences and responses to design. My work is not limited to mere exhibitions; it is an ongoing journey of research and discovery. By continuously examining the interplay between objects and emotions, I aim to create designs that resonate on a profound level, forging meaningful connections between users and the artefacts with which they interact. This continuous investigation fuels my passion for design, driving me to develop innovative and evocative creations that provoke thought, spark conversations, and elicit diverse emotional responses in a playful manner.

LMW: I envisage the future of design to be more subtle and accessible, breaking down barriers and reaching a broader audience. Within the design scene, there are already numerous outstanding and sustainable approaches and concepts, but they often remain out of reach for those who are not in the field of design. To pave the way for this future, I believe it is crucial to familiarise users with ideas, concepts, and materials through interdisciplinary and interactive approaches.

My vision for the future is one where design is perceived as a versatile tool rather than just a solution. By embracing this perspective, I aim to continually reorient my approach to address the pressing questions and challenges of our time. Design, for me, is a means to make a positive impact, and I hope to use it as a powerful tool for change and improvement.

LMW: My approach to design is rooted in the belief that “New isn’t always better.” I find that many previous traditions and customs of handling and interacting with objects, though forgotten over time, hold great relevance in the present day. Drawing inspiration from these forgotten customs, I aim to challenge the notion that design must always be entirely new. Instead, I seek to revive old traditions and adapt them to suit the needs of the future. In this way, my approach reflects a blend of tradition and modernity, embracing timeless elements whilst pushing the boundaries within the field. By revitalising past practices, I strive to offer a fresh perspective that resonates with contemporary sensibilities, enriching the design landscape with meaningful and thoughtful creations.