Working in her Tel Aviv- based studio, Mika Barr, is a promising young  designer, that uses innovative printing methods, like 3D folding on fabrics, to create fashion and interior textiles. When we first came by her Etsy Shop, we found ourselves impressed with the unique quality, sophistication and minimalist perspective  of her products so we decided to drop her a line asking her more about her and her fascinating designs!

• Who is behind studio Mikabarr? Can you tell us something about yourself and your background?

I am originally from Ra’anana, a suburb of Tel Aviv. Ever since I was young, I knew I wanted to be a designer, I just wasn’t sure in what field. When I decided that I want to begin my studies, I explored a little, and found out about the textile design dept. in Shenkar College, near Tel Aviv. I wasn’t sure what textile design, meant,  but I followed my instinct – and I was right. I graduated my B. Textile Design degree on 2009.

• Your textiles are truly unique, can you tell us something about the making process?

The collection was developed during 2009 as the final project of my studies in “Shenkar” college of engineering and design, textile design dept. (Israel) The project deals with print as an outline to fabric’s structure. So I have created textiles that fold, fracture and turn three-dimensional, derived from the flat printed pattern.

The inspiration emerged from researching the relation between geometrics and organics, while observing flowers and different structures in nature, painting them and folding diverse shapes. I also explored the relations between printed material itself and the image it creates. This evolved to an innovative textile manufacture process, in which the printed image defines the fabric’s dropping and folding.

The patterns show both ends of the research – the tidy, organised polygons facing the organic, spreading leaf-like shape. The technique is possible with any kind of pattern – animal skin, etc. It depends in the effect that one wants to create. The polymer is added to the fabric in a screen printing process, while it is wet. Then, when exposed to heat, the material is hardened. The fabric receives a new structure – a soft-hard, sculptural structure, that enables the multiple shapes and playfulness. First prototypes, as well as some of the models, are handmade in the studio. Others are especially made for the studio, in a local printing mill.

• Your designs are geometrical and minimal, where does your inspiration come from ?

The working process, which is done with matter, with hands, brings surprises that lead sometimes to revelations during the research. Inspiration derives from nature, from the city, and from different structures – natural and man-made. In my research, I also like to deal with color and scale, those basic elements are endless… then when I start the process, the materials and their qualities are very influential to me. I start with observing, then painting, folding diverse shapes. Then I move to actual substance experiments, and then the fun begins! I see my work as a one big ongoing project, that has diverse aspects. I explore the relations between printed material itself and the image it creates. Thus while creating textiles that fold, fracture and turn three-dimensional, derived from a flat pattern. The patterns express relations between polygonal and organic shapes.

As a designer and artist, I strive to combine innovation and freshness, along with traditional methods and techniques. I wish to create crafted objects that are also functional, clean and elegant. To me, printing is not just about image, it’s about matter, and it’s about adding new qualities to it.

• Studio Mikabarr has been growing more and more and now you are handling even big orders, how do you handle this growth? Is there a team working to support you?

It is a fun challenge to grow like that, in the right time. I have a team of two great employees, and along with some outsourcing, we grow along with orders and projects.

• Are you selling exclusively on Etsy? Where else can we find your products?

No, I’m also selling worldwide in selected boutiques, among them you can find ABC Home & Carpet (NY), Spotti Milan, Monoqi, and more. Also in my studio and in stores in Israel, of course.

• You have been participating in some events around Europe and the world, how is the experience of showcasing your products live? What are the differences with online selling? Is it worth the trouble?

Sure it’s worth the trouble. It’s actually a lot of fun. There’s nothing like a potential customer touching the textile, appreciating the material, making personal contact with me. Also – it allows me to be exposed to buyers from all around Europe, and the world.

• Recently there has been a growth ”boom” in Israeli design and fashion, how do you perceive this? Is there any support for start- up companies, designer and artisans from Israel ?

I think the talent has always been here, but now, with internet, Facebook etc. it’s easier also for small Israeli designers to showcase their work overseas, and to export rather easily. (All is relative, of course). Another thing – Israeli people in general, and especially designers, are very resourceful. Our almost non existing industry, and little manufacturing options, make us find creative processes and solutions. About support – unfortunately this field has yet to grow… I don’t think our government understands the importance of supporting designers,  independent makers and creators.

• We saw you are participating in another exciting project, SALT, can you tell us more about it?

SALT is a design brand that aspires to breathe new life into the interior environment by adding a pinch of contemporary expression. The team is consisted of Gil Sheffi, Yoav Avinoam and myself. We create lighting, home accessories and objects by bringing together designers from different fields: product, textile, furniture etc. Together, we aim to create a diverse and multidisciplinary design language. Our philosophy is to develop that which captures the simplicity of design by using the right material, form, and spirit in each product.