Karoline Bakken Lund and I started mimosa—studio, a small and humble design bureau, right after we graduated from the MA. It quickly grew alongside our ambitions — from a small 2x3 meter studio into a 700 sqm space in downtown Oslo (in a protected building, initally set for demolition), where we rented out ateliers to other artists and designers (such as Narv1senbiblioteket, Villbrygg, Live Berg, Veronica Bruce and Marianne Skårbovik), aiming to create a larger, friendly community around art, design and food (we loved the existing 80's interior of the place).

It was an amazing time and we were able to collaborate on some great work within the world of text and textiles, craft and community. Inspired by transdisciplinary studios such as Dexter Sinister, Åbäke and Haik w/ we designed publications (such as the one for contemporary artist Ann Iren Buan for her solo Around Us Surround Us at the Vigeland museum) and visual profiles (e.g. Sun and Spring in January at Astrup Fearnley), branded companies , created woven pieces (for Constance Tenvik), produced knitwear collections (for Rauma yarn), organized events in atmospheric settings (such as ORANGE), sewed costumes and made scenography for music and dance performances.

We didn’t have a pitch, and we never wanted one. mimosa—studio was a mosaic of sorts, an ever-revolving collage, a work-in-progress. mimosa—studio was equal parts champagne and orange juice; serious research-driven business and kitsch; top-notch results and unpretentious attitude.

Despite the corny name, mimosa—studio thrived on great performance-driven work. Somewhat haphazardly, mimosa is the official flower of the International Women’s Day, and we enjoyed this link, being female designers in a quite male-dominated environment.

After I had my daughter, we decided to pursue our own personal projects, but Karoline still operates her artistic practice in the mimosa space. It's so lovely, I truly encourage a visit.

Website:
www.mimosa.studio

Address:
Christian Krohgs gate 2, Oslo, Norway