The Swan – When Design Replaces the Ordinary
Author: Ladislav Gulyás, ⏱️ 3 minutes
Technical specifications:
Material: Metal / iron
Dimensions: Depth 135 mm, height 94 mm.
Weight: 0.6 kg
Finish: Matte varnish
Status: Available / For sale
The story behind the creation of a hand-forged pen holder from a limited-edition designer collection.
Why shouldn't we surround ourselves with something different? Why do we always use the same templates? Why not step off the beaten path and treat ourselves to something different? Something no one else has? Just you.
This hand-forged pen holder is being created as a limited artist's edition. I'll make only seven pieces, and the prototype will remain in my studio. Is that a lot? Is that a little? In mass production, it's a negligible amount. For an artist's creation, seven pieces is just right.
Artistic Blacksmithing with a Modern, Minimalist Approach
Artistic blacksmithing need not be associated exclusively with the Middle Ages or with the restoration of castles, chateaus, or manor houses. In my opinion, this wonderful craft rightfully belongs in the 21st century. We don't have to follow established templates, volutes, "S-curves," and so on. Times have changed, and blacksmithing must change as well. It simply has to keep up with the times.
Experiment – Search, Find
When creating applied art, the most important thing for me is to find the right form. You have to let go of that initial "flow," but sometimes you need to make things functional. This case was no different. I sought and ultimately found inspiration in nature—pure, undisturbed organic lines that blend seamlessly with a modern interior.
I spent two days searching for the right form, and in the process, I produced several failed attempts. Yes, no one can avoid that when creating art... I was trying to achieve what is known as the "serpentine figure." This term was primarily associated with late Renaissance sculpture, when artists sought the perfect form to give the sculpture a dynamic appearance. I think this concept captures the essence of this work best.
When Design Replaces Ordinariness
The question remains: "Why should I buy this? After all, a glass will do just as well for pens…" Yes, you're right. But if you're only looking for functionality in things, you're in the wrong place. I look for aesthetics in things. Design. Uniqueness. Mass production is intended for the general public. For consumption. And if you're looking for something like that on these pages, I'm afraid I'll have to disappoint you. Your expectations will likely not be met.
A limited edition of these stands is gradually being produced. All are signed and come with a certificate of authenticity that includes the product's serial number. A lifetime warranty is, of course, included—just as it is with all other original works of art.
"Art washes away the dust of everyday life from the soul." – Pablo Picasso
I think these photos truly capture that inimitable sense of peace. When were they taken, I wonder? Saturday morning? Sunday afternoon? What are the pens waiting for? To jot down your thoughts in a journal, or your words of love? Perhaps to sign an important business contract that will change your life...
I don't just create a utilitarian object. I want to enrich you with a feeling.
Photo: Ladislav Gulyás Metal Studio