Stine Find Osther, a Danish native, embraced creativity early in life, exploring painting and sculpture before delving into formal design education. Intrigued by color and texture, she pursued a path in design, eventually obtaining a master’s degree in 2005. Osther found her calling in textile design somewhat by chance but has never looked back. Just two years post-graduation, she became part of the product development team at Kvadrat, a renowned global textile brand. Today, she serves as the vice president of design, steering the company’s creative direction across all its brands.
PROJECT OVERVIEW
Designer: Stine Find Osther
Brand: Kvadrat
Inspiration: Erik A. Frandsen’s Art
In her esteemed role at Kvadrat, Osther collaborates with a diverse array of external designers, from emerging talents to internationally celebrated figures. This rich pool of creative minds brings expertise from various fields, and Osther plays a pivotal role as both a guide and a translator. She ensures the integrity of Kvadrat’s DNA while introducing novel influences, resulting in collections that harmoniously blend tradition with contemporary innovation. Osther’s approach ensures that Kvadrat remains at the forefront of textile design, offering products that are both timeless and contemporary.
Art remains a significant source of inspiration for Osther, with the works of fellow Dane Erik A. Frandsen particularly influential. She fondly recalls attending his 2002 exhibition, “In the Shadow of Light”, eight times, captivated by his masterful use of color. This experience profoundly impacted her professional endeavors, revealing to her the depth and potential of specializing in color. It was a lesson in creativity she cherishes, one that continues to inform her work and drive her passion for design.
Beyond visual art, Osther finds inspiration in the structure and power of language. Words are integral to her creative process, and she often uses them in tandem with visuals to conceptualize her ideas. Whether alone, paired, or crafted into longer narratives, language aids in her mind mapping and idea formation. By combining linguistic and visual elements, Osther is able to navigate and expand her creative landscape, further fueling her innovative direction at Kvadrat.
Osther recently shared some personal inspirations that continue to influence her life and work. Among these is an artwork by Erik A. Frandsen titled “Five Car Studs, 2021,” which she treasures for its personal significance. Owning a piece by Frandsen represents the meeting point of long-held inspiration and her present life, a connection she values deeply. Additionally, Osther is inspired by the works of Danish poet Inger Christensen, particularly the “Alphabet” collection, which she describes as a visual feast for her creative mind.
In her everyday life, simplicity and nature serve as sources of grounding and inspiration. Her talent for finding lucky clovers acts as a constant reminder of fortune and creativity. The ever-changing view from her home offers a daily canvas of light and color compositions that inspire her design process. Music also holds a cherished place in her life; she shares a special connection to the song “Eight Arms to Hold You” by Jacob Bellens, which marked a significant personal moment when performed live at her wedding. Each of these elements contributes to Osther’s rich tapestry of inspiration, fostering a creative spirit that resonates throughout her work and personal life.
