New Balance M920BKO with Fernando Aciar of fefostudio

With supreme craftsmanship at the core of the New Balance M920BKO, the newly introduced sneaker offers made in England quality crossed with Big Apple style. Inspired by the look down to the detailed words on the box, we decided to shed light on another rising star of artistry and skillfulness down to the last detail, namely Fernando Aciar of fefostudio. Born in Argentina, the trained chef has made a name for himself as the creator of a variety of home goods, from tableware to lighting, to jewelry. His design studio and work blur the lines between function and artistry, offering ceramics inspired by every-day objects. Like the New Balance M920BKO, Fernando knows what it means to build something from scratch with your hands, pure dedication, heart, and a story to tell – what better to link them both up and enjoy, right? Check out the interview we did with Fernando below, and take a look at his creative process right in the heart of Brooklyn.

__SNS: How does craftsmanship tie in to you and your studio? __

Fernando: At an early age my parents taught me how to sustain myself and learn basic things like cooking, sawing, carpentry, and ceramics. I always was the first in my class for arts and crafts. I thought I was going to be an architect, but I had a strong calling towards cooking and spending time in the kitchen. I’ve always been a craftsman, but it was only in more recent years that I realized the power in it and how much the dynamics of living can change trough crafting.

When you think about quality, whats the first thing that comes to mind?

The studio produces all sorts of handmade products and the wabisabi philosophy resonates a lot with me. The wares produced at the studio include shapes that are familiar with the body, they are an extension. I think that is the kind of quality I want to show. The degree of human connection with the product, where it fits in the space, the light, its utility for eating, drinking and being a part of its environment.

__How do you assure you have top quality with your work? __

The quality control starts at the beginning and persists through all 5 stages, it never stops until the product comes out of the oven, and even then it keeps evolving until it is sold and placed in the right space.

You spoke about several projects you are working on which revolve around different crafts and skills. Could you touch upon this and give us some insight on it?

I am working on a line of textiles for home dining in collaboration with 11.11 clothing. Everything is hand loomed, natural dyed, and hand stitched by the 11.11 artisans. I believe in human energy through the act of making and wearing. I am also launching leather goods for everyday use and travel. All of these new projects have the essence of color, pattern, and style derived from my ceramic work. When put together, you can see that they are all meant to be used and placed in the same space. I like to work with different materials and textures and see what one skill can bring to another. This is just the beginning of something new for the studio.