Aldis Blicsons

Could you please tell us more about your art and design background? What made you become an artist/designer? Have you always wanted to be a designer?

During childhood, while others dreamed of becoming astronauts, policemen or cowboys, I knew I was going to be an architect. At age 5 I was drawing intricate designs of building facades and interiors. Then I became one and it wasn't enough.

Can you tell us more about your company / design studio?

Our company is a recent creation, that grew while designing our first product. A need for a company came with the development of new designs.

What kinds of works do you like designing most?

In architecture I enjoy reconstructing old buildings, while giving them a new life and keeping as much of its heritage as possible. Within architecture and design alike I'm a minimalist.

What is your most favorite design, could you please tell more about it?

Alvar Aalto, Chair number 41. Latvians have a very close relationship with forests and everything made from wood. Here in Latvia we have a long history of producing plywood. Also, of making things from bended plywood.

What was the first thing you designed for a company?

My first product was the Brum Brum bike, which we made in a team, that is part of the design studio STUM crew now.

What is your favorite material / platform / technology?

Bended plywood is my favorite material. If we're talking about technology, then it's 3D modeling and augmented reality.

What kind of emotions do you feel when you design?

I don’t design by sitting and doing it. Everything happens in my head. Also 3D, detail connections and materials. Paper or laptop are just tools to show and explain how it will work.

What kind of emotions do you feel when your designs are realized?

It is always a lengthy way from sketch to ready product. It's like "Yes, we did it!".

From your point of view, what are the responsibilities of a designer for society and environment?

Sustainability. Transportation and packaging are the biggest mess in consumer society. Use of local materials and technology is necessary for me.

How do you think the "design field" is evolving? What is the future of design?

Bigger population, additional tasks to resolve. In the future I see more useful design solutions and less "brand" or "rockstar" designs to make more money.

Where does the design inspiration for your works come from? How do you feed your creativity? What are your sources of inspirations?

Science. You can create something new only when all the parts are connected - materials, technology, needs.

Where do you live? Do you feel the cultural heritage of your country affects your designs? What are the pros and cons during designing as a result of living in your country?

Latvia. Small country in the North of Europe. We have a long sea coastline with white sand. We collect mushrooms and berries in the woods, celebrate ancient festivals at countryside. Connection with nature is very close.

What are your suggestions to companies for working with a designer? How can companies select a good designer?

There is not a perfect formula for it. First conversation will tell you to chose this or the other designer. You can find solutions for your problems together but not ask to just realize your tasks.

Can you talk a little about your design process?

Everything happens in my head and I use paper or software just to understand, if it works or not.

What are 5 of your favorite design items at home?

My 3 sofas, electric kettle and our design lamp prototype I have in my room.

Can you describe a day in your life?

Lazy morning. E-mails. Some outdoor work. Evening with friends or some musical event. Night at home watching movies or working. Radio broadcasts (I'm a radio DJ) every sunday.

How long does it take to design an object from beginning to end?

First prototypes come quickly, but sometimes it takes a few years till the end result.

Who are some of your clients?

Mostly we are our clients but sometimes friends who ask for a solution or just help to finish their ideas.

What type of design work do you enjoy the most and why?

I enjoy all parts of my job. It's necessary to love what you are doing.

What are your future plans? What is next for you?

Build STUM design studio to make new designs, prototyping and enjoy time with friends which are involved in processes.

Do you work as a team, or do you develop your designs yourself?

We are a team of approximately 10 people who do some work time from time.

Do you have any works-in-progress being designed that you would like to talk about?

We are working on a ceiling light object. Two types of prototypes are built already, but it’s still in progress.