Be it “Switch”, “Curious” or “Turn”, with her objects Caroline Olsson often points to traditional crafts and ancient items and techniques. That said, she gives them a new twist, for example with her table called “Bambi” – its legs can fold inwards. Olsson prefers to work with materials like untreated wood, leather or hand-blown glass. Recently, Kunstmuseum Sønderjyllands in Tønder, Denmark, invited her along with four other young Nordic designers, to contribute to the exhibition marking the centenary of the birth of Hans J. Wegner. She came up with “Peacock”, a tea-light holder made of polished brass that is a refined, small-sized homage to Wegner’s “Peacock Chair”.
Caroline Olsson
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Whowhatwherewhenhow?
Where would you like to live?
I would like to live at the countryside in a small house where I have a studio with workshop facilities - surrounded with a lush garden with trees, flowers, berries and vegetables.
Your favorite character in the history of design?
That’s a hard question. I admire many, but I think that Tapio Wirkkala was an interesting character.
Which qualities do you admire in a designer?
Persistence, productivity and honesty.
What do you enjoy doing most?
To develop new products, and especially the phase when I discover that an idea can turn into something.
Your main personality trait?
Calm, accurate and diligent.
Your biggest mistake?
Sometimes I can be a bit whimsical.
Your idea of happiness?
To be surrounded by people that I love.
What do you find really annoying?
When company’s don´t appreciate their designers.
Your favorite material?
Wood.
Your favorite flower?
Arctic starflower.
What kind of music do you listen to when you work?
It varies. Right now “Arcade Fire” inspires me to work.
Which design achievement do you most detest?
Right now the Nespresso capsules. It creates a lot of unnecessary garbage.
Which talent would you like to have?
I would love to play an instrument.
Can you describe your present state of mind?
Now I am in a limbo between being a student and trying to live as a designer.
Your motto?
Dare to take challenges that frightens you.