Markus Larsson has been running Creative Concrete for a few years and is currently one of the participants in eXpression Design. He likes the idea of mixing old and new and sees opportunities when others see scrap. Meet Markus in the middle of the process of the business development programme, which ends with a vernissage in May.
Tell us about your company and your creativity:
It so happened that there were a number of curbs missing from our driveway, so I thought: "I'll make my own!" And while I was at it, I made some concrete benches. That's when I realised I like the grey and robustness of that concrete. Then I floated the idea of starting my own business with a friend who is an accountant. From there, my creativity has grown and I've also started to dabble in other types of materials.
How would you describe your creative expression?
I like the idea of mixing what is old with what is new. A bit like the "New Old" programme that was on TV in the 70s and 80s. I'm not exactly a scrapper, but I try to see the potential in what others see as junk. Then, over the years, I've become more interested in design and curious about different expressions. Now I'm thinking of adding "Design" to my company name.
Can you give any clues as to what we'll see from you at the launch in May?
It will be something with a patina that will hopefully brighten up your life.
How would you describe the process of your product?
It has been like a roller coaster. One moment I've been super excited and felt invincible, and a week later I'm back to zero. It's been the odd dead end. I've had the opportunity to dig a little deeper into a creative mire and to bounce ideas off the other participants. Then I've been able to meet several manufacturers and see what opportunities are available today.
What do you hope to convey with the product?
I want to convey a feeling that something that has been scarred by the elements over the years can once again be in the spotlight.
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Photo: Bea Holmberg
