Ragna Ragnarsdottir

Plastic sculptor

©Ragna Ragnarsdottir

Finding a balance in work and life

Both Ragna and her work cross borders
She uses low-tech accessible techniques
She mixes natural and manmade materials

Industrial designer Ragna Ragnarsdottir has making in her blood. Brought up by a carpenter father, at the age of 12 she built a desk with a top that opened up; somewhere to hide her secrets. Today, she investigates the intersection between design and making by putting process at the forefront of her practice. Using unusual combinations of materials including resin, clay, glass and wood, her work is an innovative and joyful expression of the creative process. Just as she sees no reason to limit herself to one material, neither does she work solely in one country, but divides her time between her native Iceland and the US. This helps to expand her inspirations and gives her an international perspective, both of which are visible in her practice.

Interview

©Ragna Ragnarsdottir

©Ragna Ragnarsdottir

What is your background in making?: I studied design in Paris but my father is a carpenter so I grew up around woodworking. After high school I wanted a creative job but I wasn’t sure what. I worked as an assistant carpenter in Iceland. It was meant to be a temporary job but I stayed for four years.
Why are you drawn to making?: Mass production has come to stay, but there is a level of awareness among the public of the damage mass produced objects can cause. Designers are responding by mixing traditional craft and new techniques. The result is quality, locally made and unique objects.
How do you start a project?: When I start, I don’t search for something that is logical or rational, it’s more of an exploration. In the process the materials sometimes take over and it can feel like they are leading. I try to find a balance between what they want to do and I am trying to do.
How do you manage to work in two countries?: It is a challenge! I try to balance my time between all the things that come with running a studio. Luckily my father lets me keep a space in his studio and my siblings help with distribution. It is crucial having good people around you, that’s priceless.

Ragna Ragnarsdottir is a rising star: she began her career in 2016