Fred Martin
BA Product Design
With a strong interest in illustration, much of my design takes a playful, whimsical approach. I strive to create products which intrigue the user, sparking conversation and interest. A product does not always need to justify itself, but can simply be there to be enjoyed and to put a smile on peoples faces.
BARMEN
BARMEN is an illustrated cocktail set with a collection of characters with each mimicing classic bar utensils. The aim of the project was to bring a range of characters to life, creating a narrative behind each figure and their purpose. The implements are housed in a branded leather pouch, each with an individual strap to hold them in place. Designed for use in the home, BARMEN aims to make the home cocktail making experience fun and enjoyable, whilst sparking conversation as a statement piece.
The accompanying booklet follows the narrative of the characters beginning in a bar scene, eventually bringing them to life as physical products integrating an element of their human forms into their function. Although form driven, the figures do not sacrifice functionality. Designed with ergonomic considerations, they fit comfortably into the users hands and are easy to use.
Each unique character is cast in stainless steel and hand finished with a range of vibrant colours. The characters are coated with a hardwearing matt varnish suitable for use with drinks.
HEADLESS
I tasked myself with designing a lamp for use in a studio environment for artists and other creatives. Whilst exploring the use of human form to create a lamp, I stumbled across the idea of the bulb mimicking a figure's head. Through the development process, the design became more refined whilst maintaining its whimsical nature as I sought an alternative outcome to existing lamps. The design combines simplicity with a playful design language. Much of the form is driven by the material (stainless steel), creating smooth curves from the base transitioning into the figure's legs. The bulb, acting as the figure's head, nestles seamlessly into the cradled arm of the figure. The final outcome, entitled 'HEADLESS', depicts a headless character holding its own head (the bulb). The design, intended to be comical, sparks intrigue amongst users and is available in a black or white powder coating as well as a brushed stainless steel finish. Small details include the thumbs and an illustrated face which is painted on the light bulb.