Blake is a London based (Minneapolis born) designer and a maker exploring the material landscape in a hands on way. His work aims to interrogate and question pre-conceived narratives using a material based approach to the creation of objects. Frequently his work considers the resources around us challenging the notion of ‘waste’ by changing its context entirely.
Blake graduated from the Royal College of Art where he received his MA Design Products postgraduate degree.
I like to sit with an idea for awhile, and then put it to paper. I always carry an a7 notebook just in case I need to draw out something. I try to get to prototyping with my hands as soon as possible. For me I often let process and narrative direct my ideation, and I like to let those things speak for themselves in the work.
Who are some artists that have influenced your work?
I am inspired by all types of artists from designers like Yinka Ilori and Ron Arad, to artists such as Joan Miro and Terry Gilliam, to musicians such as John Cage and A Tribe Called Quest.
What is the most important tool when creating your work?
My mind and my hands are equally important
Where do you go for inspiration?
My favorite place to go for inspiration is a little bench that sits overlooking the lake at my family cabin in northern Wisconsin. Being in London it makes it a bit harder to get back there, but it is always there for me in my mind, and is a great place from which to slow time down and process ideas.
Credentials
Awards
Deutsche Bank Award for Creative Entrepreneur - Funding