Architerior talked to Stockholm based glass artist Malin Pierre. Her first solo exhibition “Hard Softness” is now takes place at Gallery Sebastian Schildt and her works are also being presented as part of Stockholm Craft Week. Malin shared her thoughts on working with glass and the decision to try her wings in this field. We also touched on the subject of artist anxiety, and the strength to believe in yourself and just do it. Enjoy!

How did you find your way into art?

I have always been doing art along with my previous work (freelancing scenographer) but after I got kids I felt I had to try my wings for reel with my art. So I went 1 year on preparatory art school before I applied to Konstfack Ceramics and Glass.

Was education in art a part of your journey to become an artist?

Yes, definitely. Where I’m from it was never an option to become an full time artist. So starting art school was a really big step for me.

What techniques do you use?

In the last year I have focused on glass. I’m using a technique called Hot Blow Mold which basically means that I’m blowing glass in a hot plaster form. I use textile to create my original and after that I put plaster on it. After that I pull out the textile from the plaster and heat up the plaster to blow hot glass in.

How would you define your art style?

I create big colorful volumes with a feeling of soft textile.

Has your style or technique changed over time?

Yes, I started out with blowing glass in molds, but nearly a year ago I tried this technique (hot blow mold) for the first time and I really liked the process and the result.

If you had to summarize your art in three words, what would they be?

Volumes, color, texture.

Which artists or art styles have inspired you?

I look mainly on fashion design and haute couture, but I also get inspiration from furniture. Craig Green, Maison Margiela and Rick Owens have all made collections that really inspire me.

When other people view your work, what are their reactions and thoughts?

Can glass look this soft? What material is it?

How does your planning and creation process look like?

My process often starts with a vague idea of something which I develop by testing. A lot of trial and error and letting the process lead me forward.

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What are you working on right now?

I’m working on several things. First up is an exhibition hosted by Gallery Sebastian Schildt (this is also a part of Stockholm Craft Week) in which I will show pieces made with the hot blow technique. I’m also participating in Stockholm Craft Week with two colleagues from Konstfack. The exhibition “Glas & Glass” will take place on Ragvaldsgatan 17 during Stockholm Craft Week (30/9-3/10).

How has Covid-19 affected you as an artist?

Not so much really. There was 3 months with a lock down from Konstfack. But then I continued working at home and planned new projects.

Is there any artwork that you’ve created that is extra significant to you?

I think I found my voice in my latest work “Hard softness”. The soft feeling in the hard glass is a material displacement that I really like.

What are the worst things about being an artist?

You always have anxiety over if what you are working on is good enough and also what will happen next. Will I be able to this for the rest of my life?

Are there any special moments in your art career that you’d like to share – moments that perhaps brought you forward, gave you clarity or changed you?

I had no experience of glass when I started Konstfack 3 years ago. But the material is fantastic and it was absolutely love at first time when I tried it.

What does it mean to you to be able to work with art?

It means freedom and a constant flow of creativity. It feels like I am in the right place. To be in art school also means that you have so many talented people around you for inspiration and sharing thoughts.

In ten years time, where do you see yourself and your creative work?

I really hope to be an established artist that have lots of things going on.

If you could go back to the beginning of your art career, what advise would you give yourself?

Just do it!