Mia Neretljaković

Maam Concrete

Multimedia sculptor

©Borna Obranović

©Mia Neretljaković

©Borna Obranović

The many faces of concrete

Mia founded Maam Concrete in 2020
Her work intertwines new technologies and handicraft
She creates functional objects and jewellery from concrete

Mia Neretljaković, originally from Split, was studying Economics and Management ten years ago in Zagreb when she decided to take another career direction and work with concrete. She immediately became fascinated by the wide application of it and its ambiguous character – industrial and refined at the same time. In 2020 she managed to dedicate herself completely to handicraft and founded her own brand Maam Concrete and workshop where together with her partner she makes both functional objects and jewellery from concrete. “I have always had an interest in architecture and design. I love simplicity, boldness and harmony, and I try to translate these principles into my work," says Mia.

Interview

©Borna Obranović

©Borna Obranović

Where does your fascination with concrete come from?: Concrete has both strength and firmness and at the same time softness, minimalism and simplicity in shape, workmanship and colour. The moment of transformation of the material from its roughness to something profound is always fascinating.
Which specific tools and techniques do you use?: Firstly, I make a computer 3D model, which is then 3D printed and sometimes takes more than 24 hours to make. The printed model is then placed in a silicone bath that hardens around the form to create mould for making concrete casts.
What are your sources of inspiration?: I mostly find inspiration in minimalist spaces, the textile industry and the trends that fluctuate in them, as well as Scandinavian interior design. Their principles and harmony of colours and shapes is something that always gets me on the right track.
What is a memorable moment in your professional life?: When I first fused modern 3D printing technology and making silicone casts which is an invention from the end of the 19th century. The sense of symbiosis of old and new that suddenly offered so many possibilities for shaping new objects was mind blowing.

Mia Neretljaković is a rising star: she began her career in 2017