[02/05/2023]
KY: Hi Laurin, hope you are well. I am Karmuel from Hong Kong. I own the label @karmuelyoung_official and we are developing our SS24 collection around the theme sculpture. [moodboard]

KY: While researching and creating a moodboard around the theme of sculpture and the male body, I found your work. It looks amazing. I love the way you created your moulded tops and I was wondering if there is any opportunity for us to collaborate?

LS: Yo Karmuel. Sounds sick and your stuff is dope! Would be super down to work with you. The work I am planning could match with your collection very well. Do you have any ideas of the outcome of this collaboration?

KY: I really love your moulded tops. In my head, it would be great to have one of those from you. How about we have a video call?

LS: How about in two hours?



[06/05/2023]
LS: Hi Karmuel, I’ve been experimenting with different materials. Here is a silver mock up. [silver video]

KY: So cool! Could you also tell me more about this technique? Any more information on the machine?

LS: It’s called a deep drawing machine. In German it’s called a “Tiefzugmaschine” haha. The deep drawing machine works with heat and vacuum… so first you heat up the material and then you pull out the air with the vacuum so the material molds on top of your positive form.

KY: And what materials do you typically use?

LS: The material is Polystyrol. It's a thermoplastic material which means that it can deform through applying heat. When the temperature hits around 160 degrees it gets wobbly and then flat again. That is what makes it perfect for deforming.

KY: Sounds great, then I think we should use Polystyrol. Then for the sculpted texture, should we add plaster or a silver spray effect?

LS: How about I complete the block first? We can decide when you receive it and have a look in person if you want to add any add-on effects.



[02/06/2023]
LS: Done! I Just have to clean some edges at the bottom. [final result video]

KY: Wow! So cool! It looks great, we’re looking forward to seeing it in person. Can you give me your address? We will arrange delivery ASAP.

LS: Sure, you can send it to Laurin Stecher, Berlin, Germany.



[06/06/2023]
KY: We’ve received the parcel! It looks great! [sculpture in studio photo]

KY: I think your original block is already impressive as it is. If we add the texture, it might cover up the detail of the creases. I believe it's better to keep it as it is since it already looks strong. What are your thoughts?

LS: Nice! I'm glad to know that nothing broke, and I agree that adding the texture may not be necessary. Let's keep it as it is.

KY: It looks so strong. Do you have an artist biography we can reference?

LS: Laurin Stecher (@Stechermaterial), a 26-year-old young independent artist and designer. Currently, I'm experimenting with vacuum forming and creating pieces that blend art, fashion, and product design. I'm interested in interdisciplinary approaches and exploring the concepts of gender and body proportions. Creating a garment where you can wear items from the store vitrine is a playful train of thought.