Maruša Jenko and Jan Foraus embody an inspiring vision of the future of design. They are upgrading their passion with modern 3D printing technology, environmentally friendly materials and energy-efficient LED lights. In a minimalist style with a great deal of aesthetics, imagination and a holistic approach, they bring exceptional new-age interior creations.
How did your "creative couple" come about?
Maruša: We met in our 3rd year at the Faculty of Design. We started working together practically immediately, even before we became a couple in our personal lives, but you know, one thing leads to another. That's how we found each other and completely caught on, which led to the ambition of working together. Our first project outside the faculty was an installation at the Design Tasting House as part of Design Month 2013, where we also received the award for the best interpretation of the theme Light on the table.
They also presented the PoM lighting set there for the first time. What kind of lights are these?
John: Yes, we collaborated with a restaurant on the Design Tasting Rizi Bizi, which influenced the color and shape of the PoM lights, as we tried to incorporate their overall graphic image a little. The shape was drawn by Maruša, and then I took care of the execution. At that time, the entire light shade was monolithically made with the help of a 3D printer in the Pipistrel studio in Ajd, and from January we have our own 3D printer, which will significantly reduce production costs. The idea is that we can offer affordable products.
You are probably getting used to the whole process a little now - did you have any major problems with it?
John: The conclusion was indeed a bit more problematic at first, but slowly we will be able to offer completely new products. The problems that arose were mainly due to our initial lack of knowledge of the use of such technology, such as software, mechanical capabilities and various limitations.
So do you aspire to create all products with the help of a 3D printer in the future?
John: Of course, but the purpose is not only the production of new creations, but also prototyping. Namely, with this we want to introduce some kind of additional value, and every "mistake" makes the products even more unique.
Maruša: In addition, our 3D printer hides an additional market niche, as it prints PLA products, i.e. based on corn starch. So, if something happens to us, we can throw the product away without a bad conscience, as it is a biodegradable material. The printer also comes in handy in everyday life, when, for example, something breaks on a plastic table lamp or you need a new hanger, you simply squeeze it all together.
John: The idea of 3D printing is precisely that you can use it as much as possible when other production processes cost more, are more complicated or you cannot achieve such a final result.
How was another of your achievements - the Li light - also presented at last year's Pop-up home?
Maruša: At first, I created a sketch of a table that had an interesting leg shape. When Jan and I researched it further, we realized that it would not be feasible, as the table would not be able to stand. Later, Jan came up with the idea of using the leg design by turning it upside down and adding LED lights. Li is also environmentally friendly, as it is made by combining wood waste.
How did the name Kumomi come about?
Maruša: One day we were driving home and in the car we were listening to a CD by the band Nujabes, on which there is a song called Kumomi. I liked the name immensely, because when pronounced it sounded nice, like that, a little Japanese. Later, I checked the meaning of the word, which refers to the context of observing clouds. But the main thing was that something drew me to this name. Since it sounded simple enough, but at the same time still recognizable, we kept it.
What does your cooperation look like, do you have certain roles?
Maruša: I could say that we really complement each other. We work together at all stages of creation.
John: Necessarily together, we may not even realize how we affect each other. For myself, I can say that I am a minimalist, while Maruša pays a lot of attention to the very appearance and finishing of the form. This way, for example, I can make a base that Maruša will visually enrich.
Maruša: Or vice versa, with technical inputs and corrections, Jan upgrades one of my sketches.
Where do you get your inspiration from?
Maruša: This usually comes very spontaneously, especially through mutual exchange of ideas. I also draw inspiration from the environment, such as the various shapes and details that I see around the city.
John: I am inspired by Maruša! Just kidding. A kind of search for something new, longing for the creative process, the challenge that arises and facing the unknown, which is absolutely necessary for a creative person. Being a more technical type of person, I like to set limits for myself, which I then try to achieve or even exceed.
And what is your vision for the future?
Maruša: I imagine us fully occupied, very recognizable as a design couple, both here and abroad. We started with lights, but we also have the ambition to create other pieces of furniture.
