We've been lucky enough to chat to Ryan Roberts who is half of the dynamic duo that founded SØKTAS in 2015. Since then the creative Kiwis have been working extremely hard in developing their brand and incredible organic glass lighting pendants. We find out how they started, what inspires Ryan and his view on New Zealand's design culture. A huge thank you to Ryan Roberts and Oliver Höglund, the founders of SØKTAS for providing us with this weeks inspirational creative Q&A.
Ryan, thank you for joining us! Can you tell us a little bit about SØKTAS and how you started it? Thanks for having us. Oliver and myself first met in early 2014 when we were both living in Oslo, Norway. After becoming good mates and drinking way too many beers, we both thought it could be a good idea to return home to our families. This is when the brand started taking shape, Oliver with his glassblowing skills and myself with business experience. We came up with idea to create organic glass pendant lights. Oliver and myself both returned home in September 2015 and started building SØKTAS.
What made you both move to New Zealand and set up the business there?
Oliver moved to NZ to begin making glass again at his fathers Glass Studio in Nelson. Since the move, we have both been living in Australia working while Oliver flys back to make more glass when the opportunity comes up.
How did you come up with the name SØKTAS for your brand?
We were both living in Norway where we met. We came up with the name to represent our journey and we both liked the word so we went from there.
How would you describe New Zealand's art and design culture? How does it differ from Norway's art and design culture?
Both NZ and Norway have a strong passion with art and design. Obviously Norway has a deeper history being a much older country, while both countries have really positive cultures.
If you had to describe your brand in three words what would they be?
Creative, Functional, Authentic.
What is your favourite SØKTAS piece?
Our Vølt pendant light is the one we are both really proud of and would call our favourite.
What does your studio or work place look like?
Our studio is setup with furnaces and kilns in a nice open area. We can see trees and plants outside of the studio and people can sit and watch us work.
What inspires you?
The process along with the challenges and enjoyment from making things from glass.
What is the best piece of advice you've ever been given?
Patience and go with your gut.
Do you have any advice for young New Zealand creatives?
Travel and see the world, trust yourself and surround yourself with positive people.
All images and designs are credited to Ryan Roberts and Oliver Höglund, the founders of SØKTAS. To shop SØKTAS please visit soktas.co. You can also find them on Instagram here.